Asheville, August 19, 2025
News Summary
The City of Asheville has announced the completion of restoration efforts at Riverside Cemetery, which will resume regular hours starting August 18. This follows debris removal after Hurricane Helene caused significant damage to over 100 graves. City workers focused on safety and protection of gravesites during cleanup, with ongoing assessments planned for infrastructure evaluation and the site’s cultural impacts. The recovery efforts are supported by FEMA funding, emphasizing the cemetery’s historical significance within the Montford Historic District.
Asheville Announces Restoration Completion at Riverside Cemetery Following Hurricane Helene
The City of Asheville has confirmed that Riverside Cemetery will resume its regular operating hours of 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., seven days a week, starting on Monday, August 18. The decision follows the completion of debris removal and restoration efforts stemming from the damage caused by Hurricane Helene.
Since debris removal began on July 22, city workers focused on protecting gravesites and ensuring safety for visitors. During Tropical Storm Helene, over 100 graves suffered damage due to fallen trees, prompting immediate action for cleanup and recovery.
The city undertook careful removal of hazardous debris, which included leaning trees and hanging branches. This was done to protect the sensitive ground and to minimize any further disturbances to existing graves. The cleanup process has been described as a critical milestone in restoring the integrity of the cemetery.
Ongoing Restoration Efforts
Despite the completion of the initial debris removal, city staff remain dedicated to continuous assessments and further restoration efforts. This includes plans to replant grass in areas that were affected by rootball disturbances. The city’s efforts have received acknowledgment from community representatives for their patience throughout the cleanup process.
Looking ahead, an engineering firm has been engaged to perform a damage assessment related to the storm. This evaluation, scheduled for the first week of September, will investigate critical infrastructure, including roads, stormwater systems, fencing, entry gates, and retaining walls at both Riverside Cemetery and Montford Park.
In addition, the forensic anthropology program from Western Carolina University is conducting its own assessment to evaluate potential historical and cultural impacts resulting from the storm damage at the cemetery.
Historical Significance and Recovery Funding
Riverside Cemetery has a rich history, being an integral part of the Montford Historic District since its establishment in 1885. It is highly regarded for its cultural significance and historic integrity. The recovery efforts, which have utilized funding from FEMA, included an archaeological assessment necessary prior to stump removal within the cemetery.
Parks and Recreation staff were particularly cautious in their approach, ensuring that tree removals did not lead to further damage in sensitive areas of the cemetery. Currently, the remaining stumps will be evaluated before any additional removals take place.
Updates regarding the cemetery’s restoration progress will be available on the City of Asheville’s Engagement Hub website, allowing community members to stay informed about ongoing recovery efforts.
Key Facts Summary
- Normal Operating Hours: 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., seven days a week from August 18.
- Debris Removal Start Date: July 22.
- Detected Damage: Over 100 damaged graves from fallen trees.
- Future Evaluations: Engineering assessments planned for early September.
- FEMA Funding: Utilized for recovery and restoration efforts.
- Historical Context: Cemetery established in 1885, part of the Montford Historic District.
FAQ Section
What date will Riverside Cemetery return to its normal operating hours?
Riverside Cemetery will resume regular hours on August 18, opening from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. every day.
When did debris removal begin following Hurricane Helene?
Debris removal started on July 22.
How many graves were damaged during the storm?
Over 100 graves were reported to have been damaged due to fallen trees.
What future assessments are planned at Riverside Cemetery?
An engineering firm will conduct a damage assessment in early September, focusing on infrastructure like roads and fences.
How is the city funding its recovery efforts?
FEMA funding has been utilized for the recovery and restoration at Riverside Cemetery.
Key Features Overview
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Normal Hours of Operation | 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., seven days a week beginning August 18 |
| Debris Removal Start Date | July 22 |
| Graves Damaged | Over 100 graves |
| Planned Assessments | Engineering assessment scheduled for September |
| Funding Source | FEMA funding |
| Cultural Significance | Part of the Montford Historic District, established in 1885 |
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Additional Resources
- 828 News Now: Riverside Cemetery Hours Resume
- WLOS: Hurricane Helene Debris Removal Complete
- Fox Carolina: Historic WNC Cemetery Reopens
- WLOS: WCU Students Assist in Riverside Cemetery Cleanup
- Wikipedia: Riverside Cemetery, Asheville, North Carolina
- Google Search: Riverside Cemetery Asheville
Author: STAFF HERE ASHEVILLE WRITER
The ASHEVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAsheville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Asheville, Buncombe County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Asheville Bread Festival, LEAF Festival, and mountain sports tournaments at Biltmore Estate. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce and Explore Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in hospitality and brewing that power the local economy such as the Biltmore Estate and Sierra Nevada Brewing Company. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
