Press release from RiverLink:
Asheville City Council has voted to change the name of the newly completed section of greenway in the River Arts District to the Wilma Dykeman Greenway, in honor of the late environmentalist, author and historian.
The 3.5 mile section of new greenway is located on the east bank of the French Broad River, between Broadway Street and Amboy Road. Initially called the French Broad River East Bank Greenway in the City’s Greenway Master Plan, the new name recognizes Ms. Dykeman’s contributions, as well as better distinguishes the east and west sides of the greenway that run along the French Broad River.
“The City of Asheville’s Greenway Committee desired to honor the woman who brought our attention to the majesty and importance of a healthy French Broad River,” said Lucy Crown, Greenway Planner for the CIty of Asheville. “Additionally, renaming the greenway on the east side of the river makes it easier for our maintenance crews and first responders as well as our greenway users.”
RiverLink assisted the City with public engagement efforts that included a survey and social media posts to gauge community support for the proposed name. Survey results overwhelmingly indicated that the public was in support of the name change to the Wilma Dykeman Greenway. “It was great to see so much public engagement around the name change,” said Rose Keyes, RiverLink’s Communications Manager. “There were a total of 598 responses to the survey, and 96% of the votes were in favor of the new name. We were really happy with that result!” she went on to say.
Wilma Dykeman was an historian, author and environmental activist who grew up in the Asheville area. She is best known for her groundbreaking book The French Broad that detailed the effects of pollution on the French Broad River and surrounding watershed. Ms. Dykeman’s influential writings and passion for environmental and social justice helped shape the modern day movement for a cleaner French Broad River and a more vibrant, healthy riverfront.
Since 1987, RiverLink has worked with local citizens, community leaders and businesses to address the environmental and economic health of the French Broad River Watershed. The organization is a key player in revitalizing the Asheville riverfront district, providing recreational and educational amenities for citizens and visitors, and promoting conservation and environmental education initiatives. For more information and to find out how you can get involved, visit www.riverlink.org.
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