Lake Lure Storm Recovery Updates and More 4/4/25

Lake-Lure-restoration-project-underway-Photo courtesy of Michael DavisUSACE

Please take a moment to review the Lake Lure Storm Recovery and Town Updates for Friday, 4/4/25.    

IN THE NEWS

  • Lake Lure restoration project underway: https://www.dredgingtoday.com/2025/04/04/lake-lure-restoration-project-underway/ Contractors supporting the Army Corps are removing sediment from Lake Lure and the Broad River to restore navigability in support of Hurricane Helene recovery operations in Western North Carolina, April 2, 2025.  Using heavy equipment such as excavators and rock trucks, crews are creating a passable waterway for barges to access and remove submerged debris.  This sediment removal effort is a key step toward restoring safe conditions for the local community and facilitating long-term recovery.  The work is beginning near the Memorial Bridge where the Rocky Broad River feeds into Lake Lure. Material is temporarily staged behind Morse Park to dewater before it is removed from the Town.

Dave DiOrio with Tom Tillis at American Flood Coalition Meeting

Lake Lure Mayor Pro Tem Dave DiOrio 2nd on left looks on as Sen. Thom Tillis speaks to the American Flood Coalition’s Washington delegation.

  • Repairs, reopens damaged bridge despite lack of FEMA funding: ... along with a delegation of elected officials and administrators from other rural Western North Carolina communities, was to lobby for urgently needed disaster recovery funding. It was moderately successful, with a $110 billion aid package passing through Congress late last year, expected to send between $9 billion and $15 billion to the state against estimated needs of roughly $60 billion. https://smokymountainnews.com/news/item/39364-waynesville-repairs-reopens-damaged-bridge-despite-lack-of-fema-funding — Lake Lure's Mayor Carol Pritchett told SMN last week that right after the storm, her town spent $1.5 million to reopen a critical bridge.

MORSE PARK RESTORATION

Morse Park Collage

The Town of Lake Lure's Morse Park was devastated by debris, silt, and sedimentation during Hurricane Helene.  The Public Work's Department has been working tirelessly to remove the debris, silt, and sedimentation from the Park.  They have begun landscaping the East end of Morse Park (near the Marina and Gazebo) so the public can enjoy this amenity. The West end of the Park (near Town Hall) will continue to be used for the Lake restoration project.  The Mayor and Town Officials would like to invite the public to celebrate this small victory with a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony and Soft Opening of Morse Park. Please join us as we take stock of this step forward in our recovery process. 

WHAT: Ribbon Cutting Ceremony and Soft Opening of Morse Park

WHEN: Thursday, 4/17/25 at 11:00 AM

WHERE: Morse Park and the Lake Lure Gazebo

DONATIONS: If you would like to contribute to the Lake Lure Storm Recovery please visit the following link:  https://www.townoflakelure.com/community/page/donations-town-lake-lure-storm-recovery-help-bring-our-lure-back

QUESTIONS:  For questions please email Communications@townoflakelure.com

NOTE: The West end of the Park (near Town Hall) is closed to the Public as this area is being used for the Lake restoration project. 

MEETINGS

  • Town Council held an Advisory Board Luncheon this week for members of the following Boards.  The purpose of the meeting was to welcome new members, thank everyone for their service, ensure they had the latest storm recovery information, upcoming events, and a summary of what is open in Lake Lure currently.

ABC BOARD:

  • Members remaining on the Board: Richard Sayles (Chair), Bob Cassano (Vice-Chair), Esther Lusk, Trace Boswell, and Peter O’Leary 

BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT/LAKE STRUCTURE APPEALS BOARD:

  • Members remaining on the Board: Neil Gurney (Chair), Al Joyner (Vice Chair), Mark Windfeldt, Melvin Owensby Kimberly Sayles, David Lusk (Alternate)

  • New Members: Anthony Steffel (Alternate), Kathleen Hatfield (Alternate)

LAKE ADVISORY BOARD:

  • Members remaining on the Board: Jim Lemmons (Chair), David Lusk (Vice Chair), Gary Hasenfus, Mark Helms, Sonya Ledford, and Richard Sayles

PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD:

  • Members remaining on the Board: Robin Worcester (Chair), Daniel Bragdon (Vice Chair), Larry Czajoski, Matt Manzi, Ozzy McFarland, Jennifer Dittmer-Vivolo, Debbie Warren, Dan Gorman (Alternate)

ZONING AND PLANNING BOARD:

  • Members remaining on the Board: Randy Nelson (Chair), Charlie Ellis (Vice Chair), Mac Hillabush David Keenan, Ken Williams

  • New Member: Debra Warren

SHORT-TERM RENTAL BOARD

  • All New Members: Scott Martin, Jennifer Romaine, Marla Machado, Beth Heer, Trace Boswell

LAKE LURE STEERING COMMITTEE:

  • Members remaining on the Board: Dana Bradley (Parks, Recreation, and Lake Director), Don Cason (Rutherford Tourism Development Authority Executive Director), Stephen Ford (Finance Director (Vice Chair), Jean Kaufman (Community Representative), Laura Krejci (Communications Director), Randy Nelson (Community Representative), Olivia Stewman (Town Manager), and Carol Pritchett (Mayor), Robin Worcester, Parks and Recreation Board (Chair)

  • Town officials met with North Carolina Emergency Management to discuss the ongoing work of debris removal.

  •  Town Officials held a regular meeting with ICF, our FEMA/Insurance consultant.

  • Town Officials met with the Citizens Times for an upcoming article on the state of Lake Lure’s recovery.

Citizens Times Interview with Fire Chief Waycaster

Citizens Times Interview with Mayor Pro tem Dave DiOrio

FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES FOR BUSINESSES

  • The Rural Rebuilding Together Grants program provides direct grant awards to small businesses in the central business districts that suffered physical property damage from Hurricane Helene. The grant is designed to help rebuild and restore your unique and diverse local business community while also helping businesses retain and re-hire the talented people who work for them. Eligible businesses can request up to $25,000 in grant funding to cover costs related to the storm that were not fully covered by insurance or other funding sources. 

  • Western NC Strong Recovery Loans: https://www.mountainbizworks.org/helene/fund/apply/ Where traditional banks see risk, we see massive opportunities. For over 30 years, Mountain BizWorks has been saying yes to entrepreneurs, whose financing needs have often been overlooked and underfunded. Supporting Western North Carolina’s small businesses get the capital they need to start, grow, and thrive is our passion.

  • Business Resource Forum: Mountain BizWorks will be holding a Business Resource Forum in Lake Lure on 4/16/25 at 10:00 for all local businesses that would like to come and learn more about funding opportunities What they provide: Mountain BizWorks believes in the power of local entrepreneurs to create a vibrant local economy. While traditional banks often see start-up and early-stage businesses as too risky, we see them as Western North Carolina’s future.  Mountain BizWorks specializes in providing financing to help Western North Carolina small businesses launch and expand, by offering non-traditional loans from $1,000 to $500,000.  Because all loan decisions are made locally, we are able to support your capital needs and requests with expediency.

 

LAKE STATUS

  • Lake Levels: The current Lake Level is about 980.5 Mean Sea Level (MSL) as of 4/4/25, six feet down in the last week.

    • The plan is to continue lowering the lake a foot a day until we reach 978.00 MSL.
    • The Lake is being lowered for the ongoing work with the US Army Corps of Engineers and AshBritt Environmental for subsurface debris, silt, and sedimentation.
    • Updates will be posted here when further decisions are made regarding the Lake Level.       

  • Water Quality Tests: The latest water quality tests from 3/24/25 are posted at the following link along with the history of the results. https://www.townoflakelure.com/community/page/lake-lure-water-sample-reports 

    • Town officials are happy to report the turbidity readings continue to decrease, with the highest readings coming in at only 23 NTU.

    • We are very close to being within normal turbidity ranges.

    • All of the other parameters are within normal range.  

    • Normal turbidity range is 0 to 10 NTU, but up to 25 NTU is acceptable. 

    • Turbidity is the measurement of water clarity (i.e., transparency). 

    • For questions, please contact Communications@townoflakelure.com.

  • Lake Use in 2025: The Town is working to restore the Lake.  The contract for subsurface debris removal is expected to continue through August of 2025.  Initially the Lake will be lowered by approximately 12 feet to support these efforts and will likely go lower, depending on the requirements from USCAE. The Lake may remain lowered beyond August 2025 for ongoing work on the subaqueous sewer system.  Out of an abundance of caution, motorized and non-motorized vessels, as well as swimming, are not permitted this season.  

  • Washburn Marina/Boat Slips: Plans for rebuilding the Washburn Marina are dependent upon future funding.  We are awaiting an assessment from FEMA and will continue to keep you informed with any updates as new information becomes available.  All marina slips are being reserved for existing slip renters.  Note that the most of the marina docks have been temporarily placed on Town property near the school.  Some docks fare remaining near the marina for use in the coming weeks.     

  • Boat Permits: Boat permits will not become available until the Lake reopens

  • Is Your Non-Motorized Boat Missing? The Parks, Recreation, and Lake Department is working to get recovered non-motorized boats and stand up paddleboards reunited with their owners.  If you lost your non-motorized boat, please submit a description of the vessel with pictures, and/or the last permit numbers to prladmin@townoflakelure.com. 

CONTRACTOR INFORMATION

  • Only approved contractors may go on the lake at this time but sea wall restoration is now possible with the proper permitting.  Building contractors should submit a scope of work regarding lake use activities (with permits) to Community Development. 

  • If work is to be done from a boat, a 2025 Service permit sticker will also be required. Please contact the Parks, Recreation, and Lake Office to purchase the service permit sticker.

  • You may email kmartin@townoflakelure.com with any questions.

  • Approved commercial building contractors in the commercial model include:

    • Freeman Stone Masonry
    • K-Enterprise
    • Lake Lure Adventure Company, Mark Helms
    • Lake Lure Dock
    • Master Dock
    • Michael Markie (work from land only)

For additional information, please visit the following link: https://www.townoflakelure.com/community/page/important-update-approved-contractors-lake-lures-commercial-model

  • Western NC Strong Recovery Loans: https://www.mountainbizworks.org/helene/fund/apply/ Where traditional banks see risk, we see massive opportunities. For over 30 years, Mountain BizWorks has been saying yes to entrepreneurs, whose financing needs have often been overlooked and underfunded. Supporting Western North Carolina’s small businesses get the capital they need to start, grow, and thrive is our passion.

 What they provide: Mountain BizWorks believes in the power of local entrepreneurs to create a vibrant local economy. While traditional banks often see start-up and early-stage businesses as too risky, we see them as Western North Carolina’s future.  Mountain BizWorks specializes in providing financing to help Western North Carolina small businesses launch and expand, by offering non-traditional loans from $1,000 to $500,000.

Because all loan decisions are made locally, we are able to support your capital needs and requests with expediency.

  • Mountain BizWorks will be holding a Business Resource Forum in Lake Lure on 4/16/25 at 10:00 for all local businesses that would like to come and learn more about funding opportunities

LAKE STRUCTURES

 

Damaged Lake Structures: The Community Development Department has created a map including all/showing damaged lake structures.  There are approximately 111 significantly damaged structures. FEMA has approved a process for FREE demolition of these lake structures.  The Town has been advised that FREE demolition of Lake Structures through FEMA is very rare.  Over 30 property owners are taking advantage of this service. While the free demolition program deadline has been reached, there may still be an opportunity to obtain help. If you have a significantly damaged lake structure and have not already DELETE been contacted by spoken with Community Development Staff about what you need to do, you may reach them by contacting them at kmartin@townoflakelure.com or 828-625-9983 x 135.

DAM UPDATES

  • The reservoir drain project at the dam is now complete. The drain will allow the Town to lower the lake beyond 12 feet, if needed. 

  • The automation system for the Tainter Gates has been installed and inspected. They are functioning well.

  • Fencing has been installed along the abutments for safety and looks very good.

  • Schnabel Engineering is overseeing a geotechnical subsurface investigation to support the design of the replacement dam at Lake Lure.  They have begun the geotechnical drilling and topographic surveying portions of our field investigations. Borings have been drilled on the left and right abutments of the existing dam. Contractors have set control points, captured aerial imagery and LiDAR data, and performed other preliminary surveying efforts.

SEWER SYSTEM UPDATES

  • West-end Sewer System: The work on the West End Sewer System Project began on 3/10/25 and Public Services leaders advise that the project is going very well.  The total project could take up to 4 months, depending on the time it takes to drill through rock, etc. Updates will be posted here.   

  • Sewer System Overall: Public Services continues to work to maintain the larger sewer system.  Planning and design work will be proceeding in Sunset Cove, Tryon Bay, Snug Harbor, and Grey Logs Cove in anticipation of future funding.  The Town has applied for FEMA funding to support restoration of the system.  We are awaiting a decision regarding this request and updates will be provided as new information becomes available.  The Town hopes to continue work on the sewer system as the Lake is drawn down this summer.  

  • Lift Station: The lift station repairs below the dam has gone well and everything is mechanically connected. We are running on portable pumps now. 

  • Waste Water Treatment Plant: The Waste Water Treatment Plant is operational but we have submitted a request to FEMA for a replacement treatment system. We are awaiting a decision regarding this request and hope to relocate the system out of the flood zone.

FREE PRIVATE AND COMMERCIAL BUSINESS PROPERTY DEBRIS REMOVAL

The Town of Lake Lure and all those in areas code 28746 are eligible to apply for a FREE option for debris removal.  193 of our friends and neighbors have applied thus far. Follow this link for additional information and the online application. You may also stop in at the Arcade Building for personal assistance completing your application – Monday (8-6) through Saturday (9-2).  For questions, call the debris call center open daily from 7A to 7P at 833-468-6129.

https://www.townoflakelure.com/community/page/storm-debris-after-helene-private-and-commercial-business-property-debris-removal

Please have these documents readily available when you apply (see video on required documents):

  • A copy of your insurance policy and proof/statement of loss from the company (if insured)

  • A color copy of your driver’s license or valid U.S. government-issued ID (such as a passport)

  • Proof of ownership such as a warranty deed, tax assessment, etc. for private property, OR

  • Trust documents if you are the trustee, OR

  • Your business's articles of incorporation listing you the registered agent if for a commercial property

  • A simple sketch of the private or commercial business property identifying the locations of debris (hand-drawn is fine). 

040425 PPDP Data

 

DEBRIS REMOVAL UPDATES

  • Debris Removal Updates: The USACE, in coordination with AshBritt Environmental and local contractors, continue efforts to remove debris.  This is the latest data as of 4/3/25:  
    • 6,480 tons for the new subsurface sediment/sand removal 
    • Over 31,805 tons of sediment and silt removed from Town (+ 27 tons)
    • Over 43,207 cubic yards (CY) of debris removed from the right of way (+122 CY).
    • Over 31,146 CY of debris removed from the Lake. (+775 CY).

  • 3D MAP: USACE surveyed Lake Lure and created a 3D map of 720 acres of the lake bottom that is being used to identify debris that is underwater, like docks or boats. This debris will be removed in the next phase of work. You may review a copy of the USACE Hydrographic Survey at the following link.  Note the key at the bottom of the illustration to show the depth of the subsurface:  https://www.townoflakelure.com/community/page/usace-hydrographic-survey

  • Rutherford County Debris Removal/Free Mulch: Rutherford County has also been removing debris from the roadways. Rutherford County is giving away free double-ground mulch-like product on a first come, first served basis while supplies last beginning January 27, 2025. The mulch is available at the Rutherford County Landfill, 656 Laurel Hill Drive, Rutherfordton, NC. Hours for pickup are Monday-Friday 10:00 am-2:00 pm.  

WHAT’S OPEN IN THE TOWN OF LAKE LURE!

Lake Lure Welcomes Visitors Back As Recovery Continues: While visitors should be mindful of ongoing recovery efforts, several local businesses and recreation areas have reopened.  There are a number of attractions that are open in the area. Lake Lure hotels, lodges, bed & breakfasts, and our amazing restaurants are open for business!  Our local businesses greatly appreciate your patronage!  Please visit the area and encourage others to visit as well. 

The Town has been approved for a grant for a replacement playground which will be temporarily placed in Pool Creek Picnic Park until a more permanent location can be identified. 

Ongoing work is also taking place at Buffalo Creek Park, Weed Patch Mountain and Upper Boulder Trails by the National Guard, Carolina Climbers Coalition, Rutherford Outdoor Coalition, EcoForesters and AmeriCorps. We cannot thank them enough for their time and support!  Please stay tuned for updates as these additional parks and trails reopen.

UPCOMING EVENTS

RE-OPEN CHIMNEY ROCK STATE PARK

The Town of Lake Lure continues to encourage state partners to open Chimney Rock State Park (CRSP) as soon as possible and to ensure there are two access roads to the Park for public safety.  A significant portion of CRSP is in the Town of Lake Lure and the Lake Lure Fire Department provides emergency services to the Park.  Completing the short gap between Lago Vista Road (behind the 1927 Lake Lure Inn and Spa) and Chimney Rock State Park Road (within the park itself) is just a quarter of a mile.  This road could be completed in a short amount of time so we can open the Park, until the Chimney Rock Village entrance can be re-established.  Town Council members and Town officials have formally advocated for this option to enhance emergency responses by the Lake Lure Fire and Rescue Team. Many people have asked what they can do to help.  Please take a few moments and follow the link to details on how to help reopen Chimney Rock State Park. www.chimneyrock.info  Thank you for your support

ROADWAYS

  • Dam Bridge Closure on Buffalo Shoals Road: There will be a temporary road closure on the Lake Lure Dam Bridge on Buffalo Shoals Road on Thursday, 4/17/25. The purpose of the road closure is for an NCDOT inspection. Please plan for the road to be closed all day and we will post an update when the road is reopened.
  • Roadways: The Town of Lake Lure is grateful for the support of the community as so many trucks are up and down the roadways hauling off debris.  This phase of the recovery remains challenging but the restoration that is being done is nothing short of amazing.  Once the debris is finally cleared, the roadways will be assessed and the Town will work to restore roadways that have been impacted by the traffic from heavy trucks. Public Works crews are working on Town roads and mudslides every week.

  • Highway 64/74A Between Lake Lure and Chimney Rock Village: As of April 2025, Highway 64/74A between Lake Lure and Chimney Rock Village is closed as a result of the impacts of Hurricane Helene.  The road is only open to residents, property and business owners, and approved construction workers. A checkpoint is in place at The Hickory Nut store just beyond The Geneva Motel.  Only those with approved passes are allowed through. For questions please contact Chimney Rock Village. 

  • NC DOT updates on Highway 64: A temporary road is expected to be open between Chimney Rock and Hendersonville was extended to April 30, 2026 For more information Visit NC DOT’s Drive NC link: https://drivenc.gov/?type=incident&id=715074

  • Boys Camp Road Permanent Bridge: The Bridge has been designed and the Town has received bids to construct the permanent bridge. The Town has submitted this project for funding through FEMA.  We are awaiting their determination and funding for this project.

  • Proctor Road: These road repairs are scheduled to begin in May 2025.  

CELL TOWER

The cell tower site shifted 100 feet back to accommodate the change in the topography due to the storm. It will still be 125 feet from property lines and will be fenced in. The tower will be 195 feet tall and will be a sleek design. Construction for the tower is expected to begin this summer 2025.  Please stay tuned for updates.

FEMA UPDATES 

  • APPLY TODAY - FEMA Individual Assistance Expires Soon: The deadline is April 7, 2025. Governor Stein released the following statement on the extension: “Thank you to FEMA and the Trump Administration for granting North Carolina’s request to extend the individual assistance program and to our Congressional delegation for its support. This is a positive step forward, and I urge affected residents from western North Carolina to apply for FEMA funding to help them get back on their feet.”
  • There are several ways to apply: 
  1. Visit a Disaster Recovery Center in your community. Visit fema.gov/drc to locate the closest location. 

      (Most Recommended):

  1. Call the FEMA hotline at 1-800-621-3362 between the hours of 7am and midnight.
  2. Go online to disasterassistance.gov 
  • The Town of Lake Lure has submitted several projects for funding through FEMA.  The Town has not received any funding to date; however, FEMA is funding all of the debris removal process in and around the Lake. Some of the categories of projects the Town has submitted to FEMA include repairs to the Dam, Hydro-electric Plant, Waste Water Treatment Plant, Waste Water Collection System, Road and Bridge Repairs, Pathways and Sidewalks, Town Hall and the Police Station, the Beach, Parks and Trails, and Town Vehicles. Further information on these projects will be presented as additional information becomes available.

COUNSELING/MENTAL HEALTH

  • Crisis Counseling, Mental Health Resources Available for Helene Survivors: The NC Department of Health and Human Services’ Hope4NC Crisis Counseling Program provides immediate support and crisis counseling services for North Carolinians following Helene. Survivors experiencing stress, emotional fatigue, a mental health crisis or just need someone to talk to, can call the Hope4NC Helpline 24/7 at 1-855-587-3463. Services are provided at no cost and are available to anyone residing within the declared 39 North Carolina counties and tribal members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, regardless of their eligibility for FEMA financial assistance.  Additionally, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s Disaster Distress Helpline is available anytime to provide support. Survivors and responders feeling overwhelmed can call or text 1-800-985-5990 to receive free, confidential support in any language.

BEYOND FEMA – SUPPORT FOR HURRICANE HELENE SURVIVORS

  • Hickory Nut Gorge Outreach - Local Food Pantry: (828) 625-4683 Monday, Thursday, Friday 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM.  https://hickorynutgorgeoutreach.org/

  • Legal Aid NC Helpline: If you wish to contact Legal Aid NC for disaster-related legal issues, call our Helpline: Toll-Free: 1 (866) 219-LANC (5262) 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM, Monday – Friday. Legal Aid of North Carolina is not your typical law firm—they are the nonprofit law firm for the state. They are dedicated to delivering justice and ensuring that everyone, regardless of their circumstances, has access to legal help and support when it matters most. https://legalaidnc.org/what-we-do/

  • NC Department of Insurance (DOI) is coordinating with law enforcement agencies, emergency management, fire departments, rescue squads, charities, churches and civic groups to do everything we can at the state and local level to assist the victims. DOI Consumer Assistance will be on the ground to help with insurance claims and other needs. The following web page is updated with the latest information on the DOI Hurricane Helene recovery efforts. https://www.ncdoi.gov/hurricane-helene-response-and-recovery

  • RHI Legacy Foundation: RHI Legacy is committed to impacting health and wellness in Rutherford County by making grants to support organizations and initiatives aligned with the Foundation’s grant focus areas: Chronic     disease, Healthy Eating, Active Living. www.rhilegacyfoundation.com

  • United Way: https://www.unitedwaync.org/nc-disaster-relief-fund-helene

  • United Way of Rutherford County: www.unitedwayofrutherford.org

  •  The Community Foundation for Western NC (CFWNC) Hurricane Helene Relief and Recovery Effort: (Regional Funders, Donors and Others Coordinating for Hurricane Relief in Western North Carolina). CFWNC activated its Emergency and Disaster Response Fund to accept and disburse funds supporting a regional response and relief efforts in 18 counties of Western North Carolina including the Qualla Boundary on September 29. Funds ensure that nonprofits have the resources they needed for the critical early response and continuing recovery. Administrative fees are waived so that every dollar goes directly to assistance.  *To donate by check: make your check payable to The Community Foundation and mail it to 4 Vanderbilt Park Drive, Ste. 300, Asheville, NC 28803; please include EDRF in the memo line. $17,498,653 in 394 Grants Awarded as of 1/1/25. To apply for a grant visit:  https://cfwnc.org/initiatives/hurricane-helene-relief-and-recovery

  • North Carolina Community Foundation: Bringing together generous people and connect them to causes and organizations they care about. Mission: to inspire North Carolinians to make lasting and meaningful contributions to their communities. The North Carolina Community Foundation’s Disaster Relief Fund aims to provide assistance in the months and years ahead. “Our Disaster Relief Fund is going to be providing help with long-term recovery and unmet needs. It will complement the work already underway in western North Carolina with grants going out to organizations in early 2025,” said NCCF President and CEO Jennifer Tolle Whiteside.  More than $10 million has been raised so far for the Disaster Relief Fund, including a $7.5 million gift from Lilly Endowment Inc. Visit the following link to apply for a grant: https://www.grantinterface.com/Home/Logon?urlkey=nccommunityfoundation

COMPREHENSIVE PLAN

  • The Town approved a contract to work with the Foothills Regional Commission (FRC) in updating the Comprehensive Plan.  The process includes the following deliverables:
  • Survey creation and survey data review.
  • Public input with key community focus groups.
  • Review of Current and Future statistics and demographics.
  • Review of current existing conditions and development patterns.
  • Hold bi-monthly steering committee meetings, anticipating 6 meetings in total over the span of 12 months.
  • 2 traditional public input sessions.
  • Development of short-term and long-term development goals.
  • Webpage for the Plan hosted on the Foothills Regional Commission Website.
  • 2-4 Community Town Halls for public input.
  • All mapping will be provided based upon existing data. No new data will be collected.
  • Mapping will be hosted via the FRC server, and an online interactive map will be available to post on the Town of Lake Lure website after completion.
  • Development of goals and objectives to guide future development.
  • Development of 3-5 Catalyst Projects.
  • Development of timelines and funding sources for Catalyst Projects.
  • Mapping assessments and valuation assessments.
  • The tentative plan is to begin work in late spring - early summer, and to have the process completed by July 2026.

TOWN HALL AND TOWN STAFF

  • Town Hall was flooded and is closed at this time, as is the Welcome Center.
  • The Town has applied for funding assistance for damages to Town Hall and future plans for this building cannot be determined until the outcome of this request is known.
  •  Town Hall is currently operating out of office space in the Arcade Building including the Town Manager, Town Clerk, Administration, and Community Development.
  •  You may reach staff at their phone online extensions and the staff Directory is located on the Town website at:  https://www.townoflakelure.com/contact

FINANCIAL SUPPORT/APPLICATIONS

The following chart illustrates the financial support the Town of Lake Lure is currently seeking, in addition to Federal and State Funding requests that have been made on behalf of the Town through our political representatives (disaster management planning experts) and Hager Strategic Solutions (lobbyist).  They are assisting the Town with post-disaster federal funding applications and requests to expedite our recovery process.

There are 29 projects that have been submitted to FEMA for consideration of funding and the Town is awaiting their review and feedback.

Organization

Funding Request

Status

State of NC-DEQ-Water

(Loan with potential forgiveness)

$3,000,000

Application under review

FEMA-Revenue Replacement

(Loan with potential forgiveness)

Up to $5,000,000

Financial data under review; additional data being provided

FEMA-Expedited Funding for Emergency Repairs

Up to $7,500,000

Application under review

DEQ-ARPA Reimbursement (non-storm related)

Up to $3,000,00

Submission under review

Private Donations

Up to $90,000

Deposited; being held for future disbursement under discretion of Council

Other Revenues and Payments from Insurance proceeds and claims

Up to $5,000,000

50% has been approved for release

1/7/25 Update: 50% received.

1/31/25 Update: $1.3 million insurance payment for damage to Town Hall. 

NC Treasurer Cash Flow Loan

$3,423,122.89

3/21/25 Update: Received   

 

MONETARY DONATIONS

Our community, along with many of our neighbors, has been devastated by the catastrophic flooding caused by Hurricane Helene. The Town of Lake Lure, NC is deeply grateful for the support our community has received.  We have had numerous requests to establish a mechanism for financial donations. Please click on the following link to donate to the Town of Lake Lure Storm Recovery Fund.  

https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/WXB6HYYE8Y5PJ

Additional options for monetary donations include the following: 

 STORM RECOVERY ACCOMPLISHMENTS

  • Swift evacuation by first responders saving countless lives 9/27/24.
  • Countless rescues first responders during and following Hurricane Helene.
  • Coordination with the Rutherford County Emergency Management during and throughout the storm.
  • Dam assessment and stabilization immediately following the storm event 9/27/24-9/29/24.
  • Communication with the Rutherford County EOC and FEMA for recovery immediately following the storm.
  • Coordination with volunteer groups to provide hot meals, shower services, restrooms, and handwashing stations in strategic locations by 10/1/24. Christian Aid Ministries served 8,080 hot meals and assisted 43 homeowners with cleanup of their homes and property.  There were 164 volunteers and they spent 2,457 hours assisting our community!
  • Creation of donation stations to disseminate supplies throughout town by 10/1/24. 
  • Cleared Highways and Town roads within days of the storm.
  • Restoration of water service throughout Town with water quality testing allowing Boil Advisory lifted 10/14/24 and 10/16/24 respectively.
  • Rapid repair of power services throughout Town by Duke Power and REMC.  
  • Establishment of temporary communications systems through Starlink (10 systems) and Cell on Wheels with AT&T and Verizon 10/16/24.
  • Replacement of fiber to re-establish internet and cell service to the area 10/18/24. 
  • Repair to the left abutment of the Dam by 10/27/24 with 2,494.64 tons of material securing the area.
  • Army Corps of Engineers contract signed with AshBritt to oversee lake debris and silt/sedimentation removal during a 160 day period of performance beginning 10/28/24.  Debris removal began 11/4/24.
  • Emergency repairs to the sewer system completed, allowing "no flush order" to be lifted for most on 10/28/24.
  • Reopening of the Dam Bridge on Buffalo Shoals Road on 10/31/24.
  • Dittmer Watts Nature Trails and a portion of the Green Space reopened on 11/19/24.
  • Pressure Reducing Valve Construction in Lake Lure Town Center successfully completed 11/22/24.
  • The Boys Camp Road Temporary Bridge was completed 11/26/24.
  • As of 1/23/24, Over 32,782 CY of debris have been removed from the right of way, 27669 tons of sediment and silt have been removed from Town and the parks, 24,558 cubic yards (CY) of debris have been removed from the Lake.
  • 1/10/25: Burnt Ridge Landslide repair completed.
  • 1/7/25: 50% of insurance payments received.
  • 1/22/25: Contracted with lobbyist Hager Strategic Solutions (lobbyist). 
  • 1/22/25: Proclamation to open Chimney Rock State Park as soon as possible to bring in tourism to the area and trengthen the economy.
  • The Town is committed to sharing details of the recovery process and as our comprehensive plans are developed, this information will continue to be shared broadly on the website and in Town Meetings.
  • 1/31/25: Culvert repair on Hummingbird Cove completed.
  • 1/31/25: $1.3 million insurance payment received for damage to Town Hall. 
  • 2/11/25: Waste Water Treatment Plant is now operational.  Repaired 3 water leaks throughout the water system
  • 2/14/25: Storm drain box culvert repaired at corner of Memorial Hwy and Charlotte Dr
  • 2/19/25: Youngs Mountain Trail landslide repaired
  • 2/21/25: Green Space drainage repairs completed, grass replanted, and dry creek beds put into place.
  • 2/28/25: The Town of Lake Lure and all those in areas code 28746 are eligible to apply for a free option for debris removal program through the USACE.
  • 3/7/25: Debris removed from Morse Park trails and grass replanted in that area.
  • 3/14/25: FEMA approval of the mission assignment for Lake Surface Debris, silt, and sedimentation removal through FEMA and the US Army Corps of Engineers.
  • 3/18/25: Community Forum held with FEMA, USACE at The Lakeside Terrace with approximately 200 attendees.
  • 3/18/25: United Way presented Fire Chief Dustin Waycaster a check for $50,000 for a new heart monitor for Firefighters/AMTs.
  • 3/27/25: Reservoir Drain Valve Installation complete.

ONGOING

  • Emergency repairs to the sewer system.
  • Constant removal hazardous debris from the lake and roadways.
  • Removal of boats from the lake and boat houses.
  • Town officials are working to develop a comprehensive plan for recovery of the Lake.   

QUESTIONS/SUGGESTIONS

You may review previous Storm Recovery Updates in Town News at www.townoflakelure.com

For questions or suggestions, please email Communications@townoflakelure.com

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