Urban Living: Top Pros and Cons According to Downtown Residents
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Asheville, North Carolina, downtown residents have shared their grievances and joys about living there. Mickey Poandl, a public relations manager, prefers the walkability of downtown, though he believes pedestrian access and public transport could be improved. Jasen Folds, a resident of The Patton apartments, loves downtown life but is considering moving due to increasing rent. Anne Centers, who lives in the Battery Park Senior Apartments, enjoys the entertainment options around her, but wishes there were more green spaces and better parking regulations. Jennifer McLaren has safety concerns due to harassment and car break-ins. As downtown continues to evolve, residents hope to see more affordable housing and improved safety measures.
Mickey Poandl: Uniting with Urban Lifestyle
Mickey Poandl, 32, explained his decision to live in downtown Asheville, emphasizing the vibrant, walkable lifestyle it offers. Poandl, a public relations manager for Explore Asheville, resides in a studio apartment in Asheville Hotel Apartments, located above Malaprop’s Bookstore/Cafe.
Despite the compact space and absence of amenities like a washer or dryer, he is satisfied with his accommodation due to its affordability. Poandl also shared his concern for pedestrian accessibility improvement and public transportation development in downtown Asheville.
Jasen Folds: Squeezed by Rising Rents
Jasen Folds, a resident of The Patton apartments, revealed how the escalating rents are causing him to reconsider his living arrangements. The 24-year-old emphasized the financial strain of covering rent that accounts for almost 70% of his monthly income.
Although he appreciates his proximity to the city’s nightlife and the city’s efforts in addressing affordable housing, Folds expressed his concerns about the prevalence of luxury condominiums over apartments.
Anne Centers: Culture at the Doorstep
Anne Centers, a resident of Battery Park Senior Apartments, finds the cost of living downtown affordable. She enjoys the walkability, accessibility of entertainment venues, and the safety of the downtown area. However, she raised concerns about the lack of parking space and green spaces.
Jennifer McLaren: Safety Concerns
43-year-old Jennifer McLaren shared her safety concerns, recounting incidents of harassment and car break-ins since moving downtown. Despite these issues, McLaren appreciates the convenience of downtown living and hopes for increased police presence.
Asheville Skyline: A Work in Progress
Several upcoming projects promise to transform the downtown Asheville landscape. Notably, microhousing developments like the 80-unit development at 217 Hilliard Ave. and the 231-unit development at 46 Aston St. are expected to provide affordable housing solutions for downtown workers.
To address safety concerns, the Buncombe County Board of Commissioners has approved funding to increase the presence of Sheriff’s Office deputies downtown on weekend nights.
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