I’m writing to voice my opposition to your proposed improvements to Merrimon Avenue in Asheville (Project U-5781 and U-5782). I’ve lived in Asheville for 13 years and travel this section of Merrimon Avenue at least weekly. In my experience the traffic on Merrimon in this area has not changed noticeably and I don’t believe the volume of traffic necessitates a center turn lane or any widening or straightening of the lanes. Furthermore, these types of changes to the roadway will increase traffic speeds resulting in more accidents and increased danger to pedestrians and cyclists. If you must use your funds and engineering expertise to alter this roadway, please make sure the design:

• Incorporates the NC DOT’s Complete Street policy
• Meets industry bicycle facility standards
• Incorporates the City of Asheville’s 2025 Comprehensive Asheville In Motion (AIM) plan and the Greenways Master Plan
• Provides connection to the Glen’s Creek Greenway at WT Weaver Boulevard
• Involves the local residents, businesses, commuters and community in the planning and design process

Sincerely,
Sarah Fraser