Community rallies for safer streets in Haywood Road project

During a recent government meeting, the MMTC Commission discussed public comments regarding the Haywood Road resurfacing project, which has garnered significant community interest. The meeting began with the approval of minutes from a previous session, where members expressed appreciation for the detailed summaries provided.

The primary focus of the public comments came from Strong Towns Asheville, a grassroots organization advocating for safer and more resilient communities. They submitted recommendations aimed at enhancing the safety and accessibility of Haywood Road, which is noted for having the highest bike counts outside downtown Asheville. Their suggestions included the installation of decorative crosswalks, green infrastructure at key intersections, and the implementation of bike lane signage and green painted bike lanes.

Commission members responded positively to these recommendations, emphasizing the importance of making streets safer for all users. Randy, a commission member, highlighted the need for improvements, particularly since the project involves curb-to-curb resurfacing, limiting the scope for expansion. Joe echoed this sentiment, noting that support for these recommendations aligns with recent discussions at the city council level.

Liana raised concerns about specific grate designs that could pose hazards for cyclists, urging that these be addressed during the resurfacing. Other members, including Jared and Elise, acknowledged the efforts of community advocates and stressed the importance of timely implementation of the proposed changes, particularly those that could be integrated during the construction phase.

The project is expected to be bid in late summer, with completion anticipated by spring 2025. While there is optimism about incorporating community suggestions, the commission acknowledged the complexities involved in project funding and implementation, particularly regarding potential grants and post-construction enhancements.

Overall, the meeting underscored a collaborative effort between community advocates and government officials to prioritize safety and accessibility in urban infrastructure projects.