The study examines Patton Avenue from Jeff Bowen Bridge east to Pack Square, assessing how the corridor can be transformed into a safer multimodal, pedestrian-friendly gateway to downtown. It also aims to improve connectivity with adjacent neighborhoods, an effort that’s being coordinated with plans for the I-26 Connector Project.
Since the fall of 2023, public input has shaped the study, prompting six overarching recommendations:
This rendering illustrates the two recommended roundabouts.
Graphic via City of Asheville
Multimodal improvements
One of the biggest buzzwords of the report is “roundabout.” Recommended roundabouts at the intersection of Patton Avenue with Clingman Avenue and Hilliard Avenue would aim to slow traffic speeds, allow for public art and landscaping, as well as improve walkability.
A potential extension of Hilliard Avenue to Patton Avenue was also studied. Additional recommendations include a road diet and dedicated bike lanes to improve rider safety.
Trivia Night | 7-8:30 p.m. | Eluvium Brewing Co., Weaverville | Free | Smokee’s Pizza is on site with all the brain food you need to earn first place at this weekly trivia night.
Wednesday, July 23
“The Lost Weekend” Movie Event and Discussion | 3-5 p.m. | North Asheville Library | Free | Sit back for the Academy Award-winning 1945 drama film noir, followed by a Q+A with author Eric Monder to discuss lead actor Ray Milland’s legacy.
Thursday, July 24
Curious Strange | 5:30 p.m. | The Grey Eagle | $6 | See what kind of magic the improv-based live looping folk duo cooks up on the patio.
Supper at Six at Golden Hour | 6-9 p.m. | The Radical Hotel | $45 | The monthly networking dinner series invites female entrepreneurs, creatives, and professionals to the table.
Friday, July 25
Herb Spiral Workshop | 10-11:30 a.m. | Pearson Garden Food Hub | Free | Find uses for often overlooked native plants and learn some accessible principles of permaculture.
Saturday, July 26
Biltmore Forest 5K and 10K | 7:30 a.m. | Carolina Day School | $45+ | Race through the beautiful, historic Biltmore Forest neighborhood to support the Kiwanis Club’s mission of improving the lives of children and communities.
Local Cloth’s Anything Fiber Sale | 9 a.m.-2 p.m. | AB Tech Conference Center | Free | It’s a fiber artist’s dream with an abundance of yarns, fabrics, tools, and fabric treasures for sale.
An events-based social district could be activated in areas across Asheville. Hayden Plemmons, Executive Director of the Asheville Downtown Association, proposed the idea at a recent public meeting, explaining that during special events, patrons could bring alcoholic beverages from businesses onto event grounds. City Council approval would be needed for implementation. (Asheville Citizen-Times)
Legacy
Civil rights attorney James Ferguson II, who was born in Asheville, has died at the age of 82. During his career, Ferguson co-founded North Carolina’s first interracial law firm + won pivotal cases in desegregating schools nationwide. Dive into some of his most prominent work. (Charlotte Observer)
Outdoors
After months of work, the NC Arboretum’s Lower Wesley Branch Trail and Lower Willow Pond Trail are now open. This means continuous access from the front gate to Willow Pond and the main gardens is restored. Check out the trails now, and again when you’re back in the fall to see the trolls.
Eat
We’re sweet on French Broad Chocolate. And if you are too, it’s time to shop the Asheville Strong Summer Sale — it’s biggest sale ever. Score 20% off all packaged items in store and plenty of online discounts on hot chocolate mix, bonbons, bars, and chips, all to support the business’s economic recovery.
Wellness
Just about two hours away, you can find one of the best spas in the world, according to Travel + Leisure readers. The Art of Living Retreat Center in Boone is lauded for its spectacular panoramic views and programs designed to inspire full body and mind healing.
Regional
Speaking of the Boone area, a 12-mile section of the Blue Ridge Parkway between Blowing Rock and Linville Falls reopened for the first time since Helene. The reopening of the landslide-stricken section is another milestone in the phased approach to restoring road access to the entire parkway.
Shop
Get in AVL — we’re going shopping. The Bal Harbour Shops Access Pop-up is now open at Tanger Asheville, bringing a taste of the world’s most iconic brands to town. Think: Tiffany & Co. + Balmain. Psst… be sure to check out the fun lineup of weekly events at The Whitman, their signature restaurant.*
Featured Home
Inspired by the Celtic term for “winding river,” The Wyre is a luxury apartment community nestled along the French Broad River featuring modern amenities and on-site retail. Psst… Use promo code “getwyred” for $250 off your first full month. Take a tour.*
You may also recognize Gries as Greg from “The White Lotus.” | Photo via Napoleon Dynamite Live!
It’s time to break out the “Vote for Pedro” T-shirt that’s been collecting dust in the back of your closet because “Napoleon Dynamite Live!” is headed to town this winter. The actors of the cult-favorite indie flick, Jon Heder (Napoleon Dynamite), Efren Ramirez (Pedro), and Jon Gries (Uncle Rico) will take the stage for a Q+A after a screening of the movie.
But it’s Napoleon Dynamite after all, so you should expect this live show to be as eccentric as the film. It’s part game show, improv comedy, and dance party, with a heavy dose of audience participation.
Meet the anywhere, anytime outfit — your go-to look to finish out the summer. Grab the complete outfit below for under $150:
👖 These loose + lightweight wide-leg pants keep you cool and chic.
👚 Pair them with this ribbed knit tank for a sleeveless look that’s still stylish.
🩴 Cushionaire’s No. 1 best-selling cork footbed sandals are comfy and walkable.
💎 These No. 1 best-selling hypoallergenic huggie earrings feature cute gem studs.
👝 Top it all off with a chic woven clutch that works for summer days or nights.
The fun doesn’t have to end here. After reading the newsletter, head over to our games page. Games refresh with new challenges every day at 6 a.m. from crossword puzzle to Sudoku to themed word search.
She’s an icon, she’s a legend, and she is the moment. I’m talking about Gaia, an adorable, mellow, mixed-breed pup from the Asheville Humane Society. She, along with friends Bama and McKee are in the running for Asheville’s Next Top Paw-dle — and all of these modelesque mutts are available for adoption.
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