New crosswalks increase pedestrian safety in Swannanoa

MHO collaborates with FANS and county for U.S. 70 project

The Valley Echo
September 1, 2022

Representatives from MHO, FANS and local planning organizations gather, Aug. 17, for a ribbon cutting ceremony opening a new crosswalk at U.S. 70 and Riverwood Road. Photo courtesy of MHO

Residents of the East Haven apartments in Swannanoa can now safely cross busy roads near their homes, following an Aug. 17 ribbon cutting ceremony opening a pair of new crosswalk at the intersection of U.S. 70 and Riverwood Road.

The project, which improves pedestrian access to nearby transit stops and businesses, was completed through a collaborative effort between Mountain Housing Opportunities (MHO), Friends and Neighbors of Swannanoa (FANS), Buncombe County and the N.C. Department of Transportation. The crossings and sidewalks connect to the sidewalk in the Ingles parking lot, allowing residents of the apartments direct access to the grocery store and other businesses in the plaza.

New crosswalks near the East Haven apartments in Swannanoa allow pedestrians safe access to businesses and transit stops around the busy intersection. Photo by Fred McCormick

The crosswalk, which was originally proposed to connect pedestrians to nearby bus stops six years ago, received funding from Dogwood Health Trust and the Black Mountain-Swannanoa Valley Endowment Fund, which is supported by the Community Foundation of WNC.

MHO is a nonprofit housing and community development corporation based in Asheville, with a mission to build and improve homes, neighborhoods, communities and lives, and to build hope and dignity in the people they serve.

FANS was established as a nonprofit organization in 2011 in an effort to highlight the Swannanoa Valley through projects and events, and collaborative efforts with other local organizations.