08/26/2026
ASHEVILLE, N.C. — On Sept. 1, Blue Ridge Parkway will open a 30-day public comment period for a site management plan to restore visitor access, rebuild storm-damaged facilities and ensure a more resilient future for the Linville Falls area. This project is the latest in a number of federal recovery efforts advancing under the leadership of President Donald J. Trump in response to Hurricane Helene damage across western North Carolina.
The comment period runs from Sept. 1 through Sept. 30. Project information will be available online and discussed at virtual and in-person meetings on Sept. 9 and 10. The Parkway plans to begin design and construction in 2027.
In September 2024, Hurricane Helene caused extensive damage to Linville Falls visitor facilities, trails and several park residences. Although visitors can still access the falls, damage from the storm destroyed the visitor center and led to campground and picnic area closures.
“We look forward to the day when we can welcome visitors back to new and improved facilities at Linville Falls,” said Tracy Swartout, Superintendent of Blue Ridge Parkway. “We understand the importance of this iconic destination to our local communities and value your thoughtful feedback to guide the vision for rebuilding from Hurricane Helene.”
The site plan will evaluate options for restoring facilities that improve safety, accessibility and long-term resilience. Because the area is vulnerable to flooding, the plan will consider placing facilities in areas less prone to floods. This work builds on past Parkway planning and reflects evolving community needs and current environmental realities facing the region.
The recovery investments include:
• improvements to the Linville Falls visitor access area
• campground rehabilitation and replacements to septic and water systems
• repairs to the picnic area and surrounding grounds
• repairs to the Linville Gorge Trail system.
The Parkway will provide multiple opportunities for public comment and participation during the planning process. The park scheduled two virtual and in-person public meetings to share early draft concepts and answer questions (all times Eastern):
Sept. 9 (5:30-7:30 p.m. ET) at the Morganton Community House, 120 N King Street, Morganton, NC
Sept. 10 (5:30-7:30 p.m. ET) at the Sam Center Auditorium, Mayland Community College, 200 Mayland Drive, Spruce Pine, NC
To learn more about the project, submit comments and access the virtual meeting links, visit National Park Service - Planning, Environment and Public Comment - PEPC and select “Open for Comment.” Alternatively, comments may be mailed to:
Blue Ridge Parkway
Attn: Linville Falls Recovery Project
199 Hemphill K**b Rd
Asheville, NC 28803
The Parkway will accept comments through Sept. 30.
nps.gov
About the National Park Service. Established in 1916, the National Park Service preserves America’s most treasured natural and cultural places for the enjoyment, education and inspiration of current and future generations. Learn more at nps.gov.
Blue Ridge Parkway External Affairs Office
National Park Service
Blue Ridge Parkway (VA/NC)
199 Hemphill K**b Road
Asheville, NC 28803
[email protected]
