Recovery and Resilience
The Biltmore Estate, a historic site in Asheville, , plans to reopen on November 2, after closing due to 's devastating impact on the region. The estate aims to support community recovery and celebrate the holiday season.
Hurricane Helene, which struck in late September, caused significant damage across the , with experiencing particularly severe flooding and destruction. The estate itself sustained minimal damage, primarily to its low-lying areas and entrance.
Community and Infrastructure
The reopening of the is seen as a crucial step in providing support to the local economy, heavily reliant on tourism, especially during the fall season. The estate employs nearly 2,500 people, making it one of the largest employers in Asheville.
Infrastructure recovery in the region is ongoing, with some areas still lacking basic services like power, water, and internet. The closure of a portion of due to the storm adds to the challenges, with repairs expected to require several billion dollars.