After months of work and community input, the city has unveiled a unified design concept for the French Broad Riverfront Parks recovery project. Helene caused at least $25 million in damage to more than 200 acres of public green space, and the plans offer an early look at ways to rebuild while improving recreation, connectivity, and flood resilience.

The plan, developed by design firm Sasaki and funded primarily through federal disaster relief programs, covers a five-mile stretch of both riverbanks.

French Broad River Park could potentially see more community spaces. | Rendering by Sasaki

Carrier Park alone would potentially get a velodrome, hockey rink, food forest, sand volleyball courts, basketball and pickleball courts, and multiple playgrounds, while French Broad River Park is slated for a paddler's beach, sculpture meadow, event lawn, and community pavilion.

The design leans on ecology-first principles, with restored floodplains, stormwater wetlands, and invasive species removal woven throughout, reflecting a deliberate choice to let natural systems lead rather than treat the riverfront primarily as a recreation destination.

Explore the full design plan and leave a comment with your thoughts — expect more opportunities for public input in September.