Earlier this month, we celebrated the completion of the decade-long RADTIP projec t. 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.