Asheville, NC, August 13, 2025
News Summary
The UNC Board of Governors has greenlit a major proposal for a multi-purpose stadium and housing project at UNC Asheville. Valued at around $250 million, the development is set to enhance athletic opportunities for university teams and the Asheville City Soccer Club. While the project promises economic benefits and a community hub, it has raised concerns about environmental impact and local property values. Completion of the stadium is expected by late 2028, with additional facilities to follow by spring 2029.
Asheville, NC – The University of North Carolina (UNC) Board of Governors has approved a significant proposal for a multi-purpose stadium and housing project at UNC Asheville, valued at approximately $250 million. The decision was made during a board meeting held on Thursday, setting the stage for what is expected to be a transformative development for the university and the surrounding community.
The proposed stadium will be located on 54 acres of campus green space and is designed to serve as the home venue for both the Asheville City Soccer Club and the university’s soccer teams. The facility will feature a 5,000-seat capacity and will be complemented by mixed-use housing and retail spaces, as well as a child care center and other amenities. UNC Asheville officials anticipate the project will not only enhance athletic opportunities but will also create a vibrant community hub for various events such as concerts, festivals, and youth sports.
The initial budget for the project includes multiple phases, with a focus on developing the stadium first, followed by housing and retail components. UNC Asheville leaders aim for the stadium to be completed by late 2028, with additional facilities anticipated to open by spring 2029.
Chancellor Kimberly van Noort emphasized the project’s potential to aid the Asheville City Soccer Club in its goal to transition from an amateur to a professional team, which could elevate the profile of the sport in the area. Additionally, the project is viewed as a means of diversifying the university’s revenue streams, particularly in light of ongoing financial challenges, including declining enrollment rates.
The development plan involves a 99-year ground lease with a developer, Asheville Stadium District Real Estate Projects LLC, allowing the university to ensure that the land remains risk-free for its long-term use.
While the board’s decision had strong support, it was not without controversy. Local residents have voiced significant concerns about the project. Citizens have raised issues regarding potential environmental impacts, the loss of green space, and the risk of decreased property values in the surrounding area. A local advocacy group, “Save the Woods,” has articulated that the project does not align with the university’s primary educational mission and could jeopardize environmental education efforts.
During board discussions, member Gene Davis highlighted the importance of address safety concerns related to long-term leases, indicating that conditions will need to be carefully managed. Meanwhile, Board of Governors chair Kirk Bradley acknowledged the critical need for balancing advancements with community sentiments, alluding to previous criticisms of the stadium proposal.
Ultimately, the project received overwhelming approval, with only one board member, Swadesh Chatterjee, voting against it. He argued against investing in a soccer stadium given the university’s current challenges related to enrollment, positing that such developments do not address the educational needs of the students.
In summary, UNC Asheville’s new stadium and housing project marks an ambitious venture aimed at enhancing the university’s facilities while promising potential economic benefits for the community. However, the development’s implications on environment and community vitality suggest an ongoing dialogue among stakeholders will be necessary as the project moves forward.
FAQ Section
What is the total estimated cost of the stadium project?
The total estimated cost of the stadium and housing project is approximately $250 million.
What is the seating capacity of the proposed stadium?
The stadium is planned to have a seating capacity of 5,000.
When is the completion date for the stadium expected?
The project aims for the stadium to be completed by late 2028, with additional facilities expected to open in spring 2029.
Who will be the primary tenant of the stadium?
The stadium will be home to the Asheville City Soccer Club as well as the soccer teams from UNC Asheville.
What community concerns have been raised regarding the project?
Community members have expressed concerns about environmental impact, loss of green space, and potential declines in property values.
Project Overview Chart
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Project Cost | $250 million |
| Seating Capacity | 5,000 seats |
| Number of acres | 54 acres |
| Completion Date | Late 2028 |
| Other Facilities | Mixed-use housing, retail space, child care center |
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Additional Resources
- NC Newsline
- Wikipedia: University of North Carolina at Asheville
- Business NC
- WYFF 4
- AOL News
- Google Search: UNC Asheville Stadium Project
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