The Bakersville Design Assistance Team (DAT) has submitted its final report, “Come Hell or High Water,” after incorporating feedback from public meetings and the local planning team. The third public meeting was held on August 28th, featuring presentations by planning team members outlining current achievements and future actions and a presentation from the N.C. Commerce, Rural Economic Development arranged by the Bakersville Area Merchants Association.
What sets “Come Hell or High Water” apart is the commitment of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and Studio Gang consultants to support Bakersville beyond the report and throughout the implementation process. The purpose of AIA, Architects Foundation’s Communities by Design (CxD) is to help communities build effective strategies to address key challenges related to revitalization. Studio Gang is an architecture design practice “to help people organizations, and cities design their futures.” The final report comes from the intensive study of Bakersville in May of this year by AIA staff and volunteers along with staff from Studio Gang.
The final report contains suggestions for Creek Walk restoration and renewal with an overlook trail and observation platform, community gathering space, economic development ideas, infrastructure improvement, housing, and flood mitigation.
The local planning team, coordinated by the Bakersville Beautification Association (BBA), has been diligently planning implementation strategies since the first DAT draft. Collaborative efforts with the Bakersville Town Mayor and Town Council aim to ensure a comprehensive approach to rebuilding, restoring, and renewing the town.
The Planning Group has engaged with representatives from various organizations, including the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT), High-Country Council of Governments (HCCOG), Economic Development Administration (EDA), Mitchell County Economic Development Commission (EDC), Spruce Pine Town Manager, and Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) Community Economic Development – Northwest Region. Consultants from Mountain True and Sanford Holshouser Economic Development Consulting have been secured to assist in seeking funding and offering suggestions for implementing DAT-proposed development ideas and strategies.
A key takeaway from the recent public meeting on August 28th is the recognition that, while the DAT report focuses on the Town of Bakersville, the implementation efforts will significantly benefit the greater Bakersville area and Mitchell County as a whole.
Although there is little on-the-ground progress to report at this time, numerous dedicated citizens and supporters are investing their thoughts and efforts into the project. With a focus on community resilience, the Bakersville DAT report is laying the groundwork for a brighter, more resilient future for the town, the area, and its residents.
Follow developments at https://www.facebook.com/BakersvilleBeautificationAssociation or https://www.facebook.com/groups/177687057629115 . For additional information or to volunteer to help out, contact Andy Palmer ajpalmer2121@gmail.com .
