Press release from Adapt Public Relations:
A new residential and commercial concept has been proposed for the River Arts District (RAD). The development team hopes to transform two adjacent sites totaling 4.5 acres in the heart of Asheville’s RAD into public greenspace, 150-170 new housing units, and up to 14,000 square feet of commercial space that may include artist studios, retail, and restaurant space. This vibrant, public facing, neighborhood destination is also committed to walkability, open space, multi-modal transportation, and environmental stewardship.
The properties at 144 and 159 Riverside Drive, currently owned by local non-profit RiverLink, are under contract with Brennan Smith of BRN Development. According to RiverLink Executive Director Garrett Artz, the sale of the Historic Cotton Mill for a mixed-use development has always been part of their vision for this section of the Asheville riverfront. In fact, a restriction was placed on the property to allow for a mix of business and residential uses.Also, in keeping with RiverLink’s mission, many green features being proposed for the building that will help protect water quality in the French Broad. These include a green roof over the mill building, permeable pavement for parking on the 144 Riverside site, and an underground stormwater collection tank that will treat and release runoff before it enters the river. They are also evaluating the possibility of rain water harvesting and solar panels.The development team is seeking public input on many aspects of the project as they move forward. One is a creative name that possibly reflects the history and/or geography of the area. The working title is 159 Riverside Drive. A second opportunity for the community to weigh in is how to incorporate two unique focal points on the property currently that aren’t being utilized — the old Mill Building and a smokestack that are remnants of the Historic Cotton Mill that burned in 1995.
The project team includes architectural firm The Beck Group and Asheville engineering group Civil Design Concepts. A local architect will also be included as part of the team moving forward. The designs are still in the preliminary stage, and public feedback is welcomed as the plans evolve. To learn more and share comments, visit www.159riversidedr.com.
Looks like a great project. I think there is a flood risk so I wonder how they will mitigate that.