Disaster Recovery Updates
Two state programs, one new and another extended, are aimed at supporting residents recovering from Hurricane Helene:
- Private Road and Bridge Program: Residents with a private road, culvert, pipe, or bridge that was damaged by Tropical Storm Helene, may be eligible for assistance through North Carolina’s Private Road and Bridge Program. Residents are encouraged to complete the interest form at ncdps.gov/Helene/PRB. This program is separate from FEMA assistance and is administered by North Carolina Emergency Management.
- Disaster Unemployment Assistance: The deadline to apply has been extended to April 7. This program is available to business owners, self-employed individuals, and farm workers. Applications can be submitted online at des.nc.gov or by calling 919-629-3857 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.
Debris Removal Updates
- New Map Tool and Reporting Concerns: As final passes for public right-of-way debris removal continue throughout March, residents can now track progress in their area using the Debris Collection Zone Map. The county is divided into eight color-coded zones, and crews are moving from west to east. Residents can enter their address in the search bar to check the status of debris removal in their zone. Note, this only monitors public right-of-way debris removal. Residents who applied for Private Property Debris Removal and have concerns about the work that was done on your property after it was completed, can email the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at [email protected], they can also call the One Buncombe Call Center at 828-250-6100 and select option 2.
- Private Property Debris Removal: Residents who missed the March 1 deadline to place debris on the public right-of-way or need assistance can apply for the Private Property Debris Removal Program by April 15. About 1,100 private properties in Buncombe County have had debris removed and/or demolition completed on their property for free.
- U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Report: Within Buncombe County and Asheville, crews have cleaned up over 1.5 million cubic yards of debris and removed 120,000 tons of soils and sediment. Operations include 50 crews working in the waterways, 40 on Private Property Debris Removal, and 100 crews on right-of-way debris removal.
- Safety reminders: please keep away from active debris removal operations. Disaster debris removal work requires heavy construction-type operations, and many dangers are present in these work areas.
Buncombe County Parks & Recreation Updates
Eight parks remain closed: Charles D. Owen Park, Karpen Soccer Field, Collier Cove Nature Preserve, Alexander River Park, Walnut Island River Park, Bent Creek River Park, Glen Bridge River Park, and Ledges Whitewater Park. For resident’s safety and to allow crews to work, please do not enter parks that are closed. Parks and Recreation does not recommend use of the river at this time…