In Western North Carolina, the economic heartbeat of small businesses hinges on robust infrastructure. Thanks to a new injection of funding, four counties in the region are set to receive nearly $8.5 million to restore and enhance their essential public systems, which were severely impacted by Hurricane Helene.
The latest funding initiative targets crucial projects such as sewer line restoration in Ashe County, stormwater management in Jackson County, and infrastructure enhancements in Caldwell and Mitchell counties. These improvements are part of a broader strategy to bolster the operational foundation of local enterprises.
State’s Commitment to Infrastructure
Governor Josh Stein emphasized the critical role of infrastructure in small business operations, stating, “Small businesses can’t operate without reliable infrastructure. These investments will help communities repair essential systems, reduce future risk, and ensure local entrepreneurs have the dependable services they need to serve customers and grow.” This initiative was made possible through a collaborative effort with the General Assembly, which allocated funds for these essential updates.
Administered through the state Department of Commerce’s Small Business Infrastructure Grant Program, this round of grants will cover 13 different projects. The state legislature had previously appropriated $55 million for this program, and nearly $30 million in grants have already been distributed.
Project Allocations and Objectives
Past grants have funded various projects, including sidewalk repairs and utility relocations in areas like Biltmore Village and Clyde. The current projects receiving funding are detailed below:
Ashe County
Town of Lansing:
- $979,759 for infrastructure rehabilitation in the Lansing Business District.
Town of West Jefferson:
- $780,456 for sewer line rehabilitation in the downtown area.
- $177,037 for repairing infrastructure impacting local businesses.
- $370,407 for additional improvements to stabilize the downtown area.
Caldwell County
City of Lenoir:
- $500,000 for upgrades supporting commercial operations in the Steele Cotton Mill area.
Jackson County
Town of Dillsboro:
- $478,875 for restoring Front Street infrastructure and stormwater management.
Town of Sylva:
- $952,760 for enhancing downtown stormwater and utility systems.
Mitchell County
Town of Bakersville:
- $1,000,000 for improvements to increase service reliability.
- $1,000,000 for repairing flood-damaged infrastructure.
- $160,000 for constructing reinforced concrete retaining walls.
- $80,000 for safety and business continuity infrastructure upgrades.
Town of Spruce Pine:
- $1,000,000 to bury 1,300 feet of infrastructure for increased reliability.
- $1,000,000 for burying 2,200 feet of infrastructure to ensure long-term durability.
Further details on application processes for future funding rounds can be accessed here.
