Current Projects include: THE AFRICAN AMERICAN CULTURAL & HERITAGE DISTRICT AND TRAIL and

the STEPHENS LEE MUSEUM AND ARTS CENTER

2010-present

 

  OVERVIEW:  The African-American Cultural Heritage District Proposal is a placemaking project that combines historic community-based cultural heritage and economic development.  The District would include and connect the historically African-American Eagle-Market Street, East End, the South Slope and Southside communities.  

     The intended result of establishing the District is to serve as a catalyst for a renaissance of African American social and business enterprise in Asheville.  The renaissance will in part, be made possible through the District itself establishing Asheville as an African-American heritage tourism destination.

     The District Proposal has its roots in East End community meetings from 2010, in which native residents asserted their desire for recognition and celebration of not only the legacy of the legendary Stephens-Lee High School, its teachers, and graduates, but also the entire African-American community. The District Proposal is aligned with City and County visions for equity, greenways, public art, and much more.  The District Proposal is aligned with Ashevivve-Buncombe Tourism Development Authority's (TDA) vision for its grants projects.  Representatives of the Proposal are actively engaged in collaborations with the City and TDA.