City of Asheville kicks off the Patton Ave Sidewalk Accessibility Improvement project

The first phase of the project will start with the removal and replacing of existing sidewalks and trees.

A map of Patton Avenue in downtown Asheville with markings of lane closure and pedestrian access routes between Asheland and Coxe avenues.

The City plans to complete the final phase of the project by August.

Photo via the City of Asheville

When the City of Asheville’s GAP Plan was adopted back in 2022, the section of Patton Avenue between Asheland and Coxe avenues was identified as high priority for Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance. It includes three curb ramps that aren’t ADA compliant, and according to the Asheville Downtown Association, it has 22 defects (like broken pavement and tree roots).

That was the genesis of the Patton Ave Sidewalk Accessibility Improvements project — and now, the first phase is breaking ground.

Starting tomorrow, Tuesday, March 12, the City will start removing existing sidewalks and trees. The south side of the street will be tackled first and will necessitate full sidewalk and right lane closure between Asheland and Coxe (take a look at the map for a visual).

Construction is expected to last about four or five weeks, but you don’t have to worry about too much interruption. Businesses in this area will stay open, pedestrians can still have access, and you’ll still be able to turn onto and off Patton.

More from AVLtoday
Make the most of the season without pulling out your wallet.
Join the cleanups, crafting, parties, and promotions happening in honor of the world around us.
Lend an ear to four Record Store Day releases from over the years, pressed here in Asheville at Citizen Vinyl.
It’s time to dust off the checkered picnic basket + blanket and take advantage of the fresh air.
After more than 100 seasons as McCormick Field, the ballpark is now dubbed HomeTrust Park, marking a partnership between Asheville’s minor league team and its largest financial institution.
Land bridges have become an increasingly popular tool to facilitate safe passage for wildlife, and the state’s first will be completed by the end of the year in Robbinsville.
The City of Asheville and Thrive Asheville are partnering to identify what worked well as neighbors responded to Helene — share your stories at the April 18 event.
Dip your toes into “phillumeny,” aka the practice of collecting matchbooks, while you explore Asheville and support local businesses at the same time.
The group behind Gan Shan, Jettie Rae’s, and Vinnie’s is setting out to capture the magic of NY’s Mott Street with its fourth concept, The Majestic.