A new poll invites residents to review the draft Vision, provide feedback, and share their thoughts on what areas should be prioritized in the Swannanoa Small Area & Resilience Plan. Your input will help guide future policy and forward-thinking action recommendations. The poll is open through January.
Take the Vision Poll now.
Swannanoa Small Area Plan So Far
Over the last several months, Swannanoa Small Area Plan Steering Committee members along with County Planning staff have been working to identify community priorities and create a long-term planning vision for the future of Swannanoa. Since July, hundreds of residents have participated in surveys aimed at defining the area, naming strengths, identifying weaknesses, looking for opportunities, and acknowledging challenges facing Swannanoa. Staff have compiled an existing conditions study and conducted hazard vulnerability assessments throughout the valley.
Ultimately the Swannanoa Small Area and Resilience Plan will guide Planning & Development staff and elected officials as they make decisions around future land use policies, implementation items, and recommendations for development, conservation, resilience, and infrastructure projects. Completion of the Swannanoa Plan is one of many goals outlined in the Buncombe County 2043 Comprehensive Plan.
Get Involved
We’re excited to invite Swannanoa residents and business owners to attend the kickoff Community Design Workshop to share your input and ideas regarding future development, conservation, resilience to future hazards, and growth in your area. Drop-in Wednesday, Dec. 3 at the Owen Middle School cafeteria between 4:30-7:30 p.m. There will be free pizza for attendees from Swannanoa’s own Good Company Pizza.
What: Swannanoa Small Area & Resilience Plan Community Design Workshop: Your vision is key to shaping Swannanoa’s future. At the workshop, you’ll collaborate with staff, share ideas in small groups, and help design a Future Land Use Vision map. Spanish interpreters will be available.
When: Drop-in Wednesday, Dec. 3, 4:30-7:30 p.m.
Where: Owen Middle School Cafeteria | 730 Old US Hwy 70, Swannanoa, NC 28778
Project Timeline
A draft of the Swannanoa Small Area and Resilience Plan is anticipated in late May 2026, with the Board of Commissioners expected to adopt the final version in August 2026.
Learn more at engage.buncombecounty.org/swannanoasmallarea.
Image: Buncombe County Government