Brevard's stormwater improvements will benefit tourism-related businesses

Brevard is another mountain community whose local economy depends on the flow of tourists and tourism dollars during the warm water months. With a population of just under 8,000, its American Rescue Plan distribution is relatively small, but it is making it go a long way through infrastructure investments designed to both protect tourism-based businesses and assist full-time residents.

“For a small municipality, investing $2.5 million into infrastructure is a very big deal,” said Mayor Maureen Copelof. “These investments will last for decades.”

Brevard’s foremost investment will be into stormwater. Setting aside $700,000 of ARP funds towards that category, the city is addressing areas with known stormwater issues, including some key commercial and recreational locations. Each of those areas was selected strategically, not only due to their importance to the community, but also because the city can coordinate its ARP projects with additional city-led initiatives.

For example, one area receiving stormwater improvement will be Times Arcade Alley, a street that hosts restaurants, shops and various businesses. The popular destination is regularly stricken with stormwater problems. It is also an area that city officials agree needs some aesthetic improvements. Brevard’s plan is to use ARP funds to fix the stormwater and, once the area is dug into, then use general funds to improve paving, add green space and bury utility lines.

The city is using the same approach towards stormwater improvements on Railroad Avenue. With ARP funds, Brevard will be installing catch basins; and once dug into, Brevard will be installing a pedestrian greenway with general funds. “We’re using a combination of funds to do several things at the same time,” said Mayor Copelof.

Mayor Copelof notes that heavy rains can mean standing water along Times Arcade Alley, so these stormwater improvements are not a minor need. Residents say nearly every business in the area has experienced flooding at one time or another. Transylvania County, where Brevard is located, has been the wettest county in the state in recent years, and receives some of the heaviest rainfall in the Eastern United States.

While doing this stormwater work, the city will also incorporate other features designed to enhance its livability and attractiveness to tourists, including the construction of new greenways and greenspaces.

In addition to the stormwater improvements and the repair and rerouting of residential water lines, Brevard is spending other ARPA funding to repair a 55-year-old city-owned bridge.