Earlier this month, we celebrated the completion of the decade-long RADTIP project. Now we have a new greenway + riverfront development to anticipate — the $18 million Woodfin Greenway and Blueway Project.
The goal of the project is to transform the French Broad River into a “regional recreational focal point” that connects people to each other, public space + the river. It calls for 5 miles of new greenway, the creation of Silver-Line Park, a redesign of the existing Riverside Park, and the development of a man-made whitewater attraction.
This project, which is a collaborative venture from RiverLink, Equinox + the Town of Woodfin, will have big implications for the 828. And after tuning into last week’s Woodfin Riverside Park Public Forum, we’ve got more details, along with the anticipated timeline for these exciting new features:
The French Broad River and Beaverdam Creek Greenways
These 5 miles of greenway will connect directly with Asheville’s recently completed French Broad River Greenway, beginning at the intersection of Broadway + Riverside Dr., following the river to the entrance of Beaverdam Creek and turning to weave through woods + eventually reach Merrimon Ave.
Timeline: From design to construction, it’s estimated to take ~3.5 years. However, this project can’t start until funding is approved by the NCDOT. RiverLink is accepting private donations to help kickstart it.
Silver-Line Park
This new 4.5 acre park will include river access, parking, a playground, walking trails + a Craggy Mountain Rail Line connection. The existing commercial building’s future is uncertain, but proposed ideas include public restrooms, an outfitter + a small museum.
Timeline: Construction began in September 2020, and the planned completion date is October 2021.
Riverside Park Expansion
This existing park (1630 Riverside Dr.) will expand southward by 4 acres. The vision is to connect the public to the history of the French Broad River through overlooks, event space, interpretive signage + more. ProTip: Public comment and input is currently being accepted on this project here.
Timeline: The planning phase should be complete by fall of 2021, with construction fully complete by late 2022.
The Wave
This world-class, human-engineered river wave will be buttressed by a rock and concrete ledge, forming the perfect playground for whitewater kayaks, rafters, paddlers + more. Confused? Check out this video of New Zealand’s Camphill Surf Park as an example.
Timeline: Construction is slated to begin late this year and be completed by late 2022/early 2023.
