TL/DR –
The site of the former Beacon Manufacturing Company in Swannanoa, the largest blanket manufacturer in the world, is undergoing revitalization with the development of Beacon Village. Phase one of the revitalization includes an event lawn, a multi-use bike park by Velosolutions, and a natural surface pedestrian trail; it will also feature bioswales, rain gardens, a Frisbee and picnicking area, a food truck staging area, and sustainable landscaping. Future phases will introduce residential, commercial, and industrial elements in partnership with the Economic Development Coalition for Asheville-Buncombe County, and a 10-acre portion will be reserved for manufacturing employment.
Revitalizing Former Beacon Manufacturing Site
The 40-acre site of the former Beacon Manufacturing Company, once the world’s largest blanket manufacturer, in Swannanoa, is being revitalized. The site, nonfunctioning since 2002, is set to transform into Beacon Village, a hub for outdoor recreation, residential and commercial uses.
Phase One of Revitalization
The first phase of the revitalization will feature an event lawn and a multi-use bike park, designed by Velosolutions. The park will cater to all skill levels, and will accommodate bikes, skateboards, inline skates, and adaptive wheelchairs. A natural surface pedestrian trail will also be built around the area for walking, running, and biking.
Other proposed features in this phase include bioswales, rain gardens, a frisbee and picnicking area, food truck staging area, and sustainable landscaping. Phase one is expected to be completed by the end of the summer.
Future Phases
Future phases will implement residential, commercial, and industrial elements. Beacon Village has collaborated with the Economic Development Coalition for Asheville-Buncombe County to introduce “living-wage, community-minded, and outdoor industry businesses”. Additionally, a 10-acre portion will be reserved for manufacturing employment to boost economic growth. The residential use will focus on providing “attainable housing”, but single family homes will not be permitted on the site. More specifics of this multi-phase project will be disclosed as further partnerships are established.
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