Let’s back a ‘signature bridge’

We enthusiastically back the idea of transforming the Bowen Bridge into a “signature bridge” as part of the I-240 improvements (using Alternative 4B) on the I-26 Connector through West Asheville, downtown and North Asheville.

A signature bridge, like the Golden Gate in San Francisco or Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge in Charleston, S.C., can give a community a distinct identity, add to its aesthetic beauty and even draw more tourists.

Given downtown Asheville’s unique Art Deco architecture and chic look, along with West and North Asheville’s funky vibes, the current Bowen Bridge connecting them clashes — with its structural ugliness and dysfunction.

So how would this “signature bridge” be financed?

Additional costs for the bridge above and beyond the standard “may require local funding,” according to Rick Tipton, division construction engineer with the state Department of Transportation’s Asheville office.

He also noted that there will be a committee of local people — likely from Asheville, Buncombe County and DOT – to consider and make recommendations regarding the aesthetic features of the project.

Regarding the key issue of funding, we favor the idea of getting grants —  derived from the hotel room tax— from the Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority.