There will be no briefing on Monday, November 11, as the City of Asheville&Buncombe County offices will be closed for Veterans Day.

If you are ready to get out and enjoy the (warm) sunshine, the River Arts District is opening back up tomorrow with a soft launch on both Saturday and Sunday. Festivities will be from noon until sunset! An estimated 500 people either work or sell art in the district, and approximately 80% of the district was damaged by Helene, so opening back up is vital to our beloved River Arts District. 

Only locations deemed safe will be accessible. Studios and galleries on Roberts, Artful Way, Clingman, and Upper Depot will be open. Outdoor art markets featuring displaced artists are located at Pinegate Renewables at 130 Roberts St, next door to Pink Dog Creative at 344 Depot St, and in the NorthLight Studios garden at 357 Depot St. Also, food trucks will be set up in different locations throughout the RAD so you can grab a bite to eat as you stroll the studios of local artists. Several RAD restaurants are open too!

As if art and food weren’t enough, there will also be live music and DJs in studios and galleries throughout the RAD. The Grey Eagle and The Rad Brewing Company will have live music on Saturday!

It’s important to note that walking, biking, or carpooling to the RAD is highly encouraged. Asheville on Bikes is providing a bike valet at 37 Paynes Way and Tuki Tour Company will provide rides around the RAD on Saturday and Sunday. Parking lots are located at 344 Depot St, 37 Paynes Way, and 1 Roberts St, in addition to street parking.

Today’s briefing includes important updates about grant funding, hazard mitigation, how to apply for housing with Habitat for Humanity, and more! 

You can view today’s summary in English here. 

You can view today’s summary in Spanish here. 

You can view today’s summary in Ukrainian here. 

Helene has been and continues to be a traumatic event for our community. If you need someone to talk to, call or text the Disaster Disaster Distress Helpline. It is available in English and Spanish 24/7 for anyone impacted by a natural disaster. Call or text 1-800-985-5990.