Chris Paris
Oct 21, 2026
Good Morning, Western North Carolina! |
From a major new retail development in Enka to plans for more affordable housing and renewed investment across Buncombe County, this week's edition looks at what's changing in the mountains and why it matters.
We're also following Biltmore Village's restoration, UNC Asheville's new School of Business and ongoing Blue Ridge Parkway recovery. For a lighter local discovery, meet Brevard's famous white squirrels, explore fall programs outdoors, and find a full lineup of events for October 23–25.
You'll also find local business updates and a Senior Connections story about the meals and friendships bringing older neighbors together. Thanks for spending part of your Wednesday with 828 Daily. |
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Trivia Question❓Which Western North Carolina town is known for its historic courthouse standing high above Main Street? Answer at the bottom of the newsletter |
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Asheville's long-running effort to attract a Costco took a significant step forward October 13, when City Council unanimously approved conditional zoning for a proposed warehouse store in Enka. The approval advances a project that has been discussed for years, but it does not mean the store is built or that a firm opening date is guaranteed. Read More... |
A new round of tourism-related investment is set to support ten community projects across Buncombe County, from artist workspaces and cultural facilities to outdoor recreation and visitor services. On September 30, the Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority approved $11,186,513 through its Legacy Investment from Tourism, or LIFT, fund. Read More... |
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The Blue Ridge Parkway is welcoming travelers back to several stretches of mountain road following another round of repairs, providing welcome access during Western North Carolina's fall travel season. In an October 5 announcement, the National Park Service reported completion of important North Carolina repair projects following Hurricane Helene. The reopenings are meaningful progress, but visitors should not assume the entire Parkway or every attraction along it is open. Read More... |
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Asheville has taken several steps to expand affordable housing and help residents remain in their homes, but many of the benefits will take months or years to arrive. At its October 13 meeting, City Council authorized financing related to a 112-unit apartment development, approved zoning for 23 planned Habitat for Humanity homes and moved forward with a $6 million homelessness-prevention initiative. Read More... |
Biltmore Village is moving toward another significant stage of recovery after Asheville's Historic Resources Commission approved plans to restore sidewalks, curbs and other streetscape features in the historic district. The approval represents an important milestone for businesses and residents still working through the consequences of Hurricane Helene, although construction and final project completion remain ahead. Read More... |
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UNC Asheville has launched a School of Business, creating a shared home for existing academic programs while laying the groundwork for new majors, certificates and partnerships with Western North Carolina employers. The university announced the initiative October 15, describing it as a way to connect classroom learning with the skills and experience businesses need across the region. Read More... |
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Western NC News Roundup: Week of October 21 |
Buncombe County Prepares for Winter Shelter Season. County commissioners are reviewing preparations for the Code Purple emergency shelter program, scheduled to begin November 1. The proposed seasonal budget has increased to $376,353, although officials are still working through shelter capacity and operating arrangements. The program provides additional overnight shelter during dangerously cold weather.
Asheville Begins Major Stormwater System Review. Asheville is investing $900,000 in the first phase of a multiyear assessment of its aging drainage system. Work begins with the Town Branch watershed, commonly called Nasty Branch, and includes inspections of underground pipes and drainage structures. The goal is to identify flooding risks and prioritize future repairs.
Buncombe County Bear-Feeding Restrictions Take Effect. A new emergency rule prohibiting intentional and negligent feeding of black bears took effect October 19 in Buncombe County. State wildlife officials say the rule will strengthen enforcement as bear encounters increasingly affect residential neighborhoods. A public hearing on the related temporary regulation is scheduled for October 21.
Proposed Drury Hotel Advances Near Biltmore Village. Asheville's Design Review Committee has recommended approval of an eight-story, 210-room Drury hotel proposed at 2 Hendersonville Road. Members raised questions about building height, pedestrian access and flood protection. The recommendation is not final approval, and additional city reviews are required.
Traffic & Construction
I-26 Connector Work Brings More Traffic Disruptions. Construction on Asheville's I-26 Connector continues with overnight closures, rolling roadblocks and other traffic restrictions affecting I-40, I-240, Patton Avenue and Riverside Drive through October 22. Drivers should check current NCDOT traffic information before traveling and allow additional time where construction is underway.
Upcoming Entertainment
Warren Haynes Announces Christmas Jam Lineup. Asheville's 34th annual Christmas Jam returns December 12 to Harrah's Cherokee Center. Greta Van Fleet, The War on Drugs, Gov't Mule, JJ Grey & Mofro and Daniel Donato & Friends are among the performers. The concert benefits Asheville Area Habitat for Humanity and BeLoved Asheville. Local box-office presales begin October 21, with general ticket sales scheduled for October 23. |
Interesting Facts |
1. Asheville City Hall, completed in 1928, is a distinctive example of Art Deco architecture designed by Douglas Ellington.
2. Flat Rock Playhouse in Henderson County is officially designated the State Theatre of North Carolina.
3. Black Mountain College, which operated from 1933 to 1957, became internationally influential in modern art, design and experimental education. |
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Western North Carolina's October calendar is packed with opportunities to hear music, explore handmade art, enjoy family-friendly Halloween activities and spend time in mountain communities. Read More... |
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Coming Soon at Harrah's Cherokee Center Asheville |
October 22: 15th Annual Justice Forum featuring Brian Goldstone at Thomas Wolfe Auditorium. Indoor volleyball open play also takes place in the arena.
October 23–24: Gillian Welch and David Rawlings perform Grateful Dead Acoustic Reckoning. Two shows at Thomas Wolfe Auditorium, 7:30 p.m. each night.
October 27: Indoor Volleyball Fall Mini League begins at ExploreAsheville.com Arena.
October 28: Beck brings the Ride Lonesome Tour to Thomas Wolfe Auditorium, 8 p.m.
November 13: Hudson Westbrook performs The Hits Me Tour at ExploreAsheville.com Arena, 7 p.m.
November 15: A Magical Cirque Christmas brings acrobatics, music, and holiday entertainment to Thomas Wolfe Auditorium, 6 p.m.
Dates, tickets, and entry policies are available on the venue's official calendar at harrahscherokeecenterasheville.com. |
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Brevard's famous white squirrels are more than an unusual sight. Discover their legendary origins, why they are not albino, where to look for them, and how the town celebrates its beloved local mascots. Read More... |
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Wink Salon has returned to Biltmore Village while Chemist and Gourmand plan new Asheville locations. Explore additional business updates from Hendersonville, including Deluxe Social House, Wild Mountain Trading Co., and Edgar's. Read More... |
Quote of the Day |
“The best way out is always through.” Robert Frost |
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A good meal can make a day brighter. For some older adults in Western North Carolina, sharing that meal with neighbors is just as important as what is on the plate. Across the mountains, senior dining and wellness programs bring people together for nutritious lunches, conversation, activities and connections to practical resources. Read More... |
This newsletter sponsored by |
Morning Grace Daily |
Start your morning with a little more peace, hope, and encouragement. Morning Grace Daily offers faith-filled inspiration designed to help you begin the day grounded in what matters most. Visit the website for uplifting daily devotionals, then join the Facebook group to connect with others who are starting their mornings with faith, reflection, and encouragement. A few quiet minutes each morning can help set the tone for the whole day. |
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Autumn in Asheville offers more than scenic drives and colorful overlooks. Local recreation programs invite residents to experience the mountains through organized hikes, outdoor learning and group activities. Asheville Parks & Recreation's October schedule features several ways to get outside, including opportunities for older adults and those who prefer exploring with a group. Read More... |
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💡 Answer to Trivia Question: Sylva, North Carolina. |
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Thanks for Reading 828 Daily! |
We're pleased to be back and look forward to bringing you useful news, local discoveries and events every week.
Know a great community event, local business or mountain story? We'd love to hear about it. Share this issue with a friend who loves Western North Carolina. |