The City of Asheville is embarking on a comprehensive mission to map and evaluate its underground infrastructure. This week, officials announced the start of a multi-phase assessment and inventory of the city’s stormwater system—a move designed to improve flood reliability, prioritize repairs, and stabilize erosion across the region.
This data-gathering initiative is a critical first step in building a reliable, long-term picture of Asheville’s drainage health. By identifying the exact condition of pipes, manholes, and inlets, the city can better recommend future capital improvement projects and address "nuisance flooding" in local neighborhoods.
Phase One: The Town "Nasty" Branch Watershed
The initial phase of the project will focus on the Town “Nasty” Branch watershed. The assessment area spans from the headwaters on Beaucatcher Mountain down to its drainage point into the French Broad River near Lyman Street.
Timeline: Fieldwork is scheduled to begin March 23 and is expected to conclude by late June.
Future Scope: This is only the beginning. Additional watersheds will be incorporated over the next several years until a city-wide inventory is complete.
What to Expect in Your Neighborhood
While the impact on residents and businesses is expected to be minimal, there are a few things to keep in mind if you live or work within the assessment zone:
Work Crews: You will see small teams from the city’s partners, Ardurra or Colliers Engineering & Design (CED). They will be wearing high-visibility vests and branded gear.
Activity: Crews will be accessing manholes and inlets to take measurements, photos, videos, and GPS readings. City staff may also be on-site to assist.
Traffic & Parking: No full road closures or detours are planned, though occasional lane closures may be necessary. Residents are specifically asked to avoid parking over storm drains and manholes while work is underway to allow crews access.
Funding and Oversight
The $900,000 project is being funded through a strategic combination of the City’s Stormwater Utility Fee and a grant from the American Recovery Plan Act (ARPA).
City staff plan to coordinate closely with neighborhood groups as the schedule progresse
Image: City of Asheville