Lake Lure Storm Recovery Updates and More - 11/20/25

The Town of Lake Lure is Forever Grateful!

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and Town of Lake Lure Mark Completion of Hurricane Helene Recovery Work

LAKE LURE, N.C. — Leaders from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), the Town of Lake Lure, and state and federal partners gathered Tuesday afternoon at Morse Park for a final walk-through marking the completion of Corps recovery operations within the town. The visit represents the closeout of one of Western North Carolina’s largest and most complex debris removal missions following Hurricane Helene.

Over the past year, the Wilmington District and supporting districts conducted extensive debris and sediment removal across the region. Lake Lure, which experienced severe flooding and sedimentation, required some of the most sustained and technically demanding work.

George Minges, a debris subject matter expert from the Louisville District who helped lead the mission, emphasized the sheer scale of the work. “This has been a massive and significant project,” Minges said. “We’ve removed over 1 million cubic yards of debris from this lake. For comparison, an NFL stadium is about 400,000 cubic yards — so that’s two-and-a-half NFL stadiums full of debris.”

He added that the effort required a nearly nonstop operational tempo. “It’s 52,000 dump trucks — 54 weeks of 12-hour days, seven days a week,” Minges said. “We worked waterways, rights of way, private property and even commercial demolition. At any given time, the Corps was working in 16 counties, but about a quarter to a third of the state’s debris came from this area.”

Lt. Col. Ken Porter, deputy commander of the Wilmington District, said the mission’s success reflects the collaboration behind the effort. “This closeout represents more than finishing a mission,” Porter said. “It represents the trust and teamwork that carried Lake Lure through recovery. The town’s leadership and residents were determined from day one, and that resilience made all the difference.”

Lake Lure Mayor Carol Pritchett said the closeout marks a turning point for the community. “Our town has faced a long, difficult year,” she said. “Seeing this work completed — the debris removed, our lake restored and these hazards addressed — gives our residents a sense of relief and hope. We are incredibly grateful for the Corps’ dedication and for the crews who worked tirelessly on behalf of Lake Lure.”

As the Corps formally concludes its assigned work in Lake Lure, officials said the milestone signals both the end of federal recovery operations and the beginning of long-term rebuilding for the community.

“Lake Lure’s closeout is a major milestone for the entire region,” Porter said. “And it reflects what is possible when federal, state and local partners move forward together.”

By USACE, 11/20/25

 

BURN BAN IN EFFECT - TOWN OF LAKE LURE

 

Due to an increased fire risk, the Lake Lure Fire Department has issued a ban on all open burning and has canceled all burning permits in Town limits remains in effect since 11/18/25 until further notice.

Lake Lure Fire Departments have been helping fight fires this week in Jude's Gap and we want to avoid any fires in Lake Lure!

 

 

WHAT IS THE LAKE LEVEL

 

 

Lake Lure on 11/14/25

The Lake Level is currently at about 975 Mean Sea Level (MSL).   

• Full pond in Lake Lure is 990.5 MSL.  
• The current plan is to maintain the lake at approximately 975 MSL until further notice for the work that will be completed on the Tainter gates. 
• Any changes in lake levels beyond this point will be posted in Town News at www.townoflakelure.com.

 

HOW LONG WILL THE LAKE BE DOWN?  

 

We are unable to specify the length of the drawdown period at this time.  

• When a change in the lake level is planned, it will be posted in Town News at www.townoflakelure.com. 
• Throughout the lake drawdown, Town engineers and staff will be scheduling work and inspections on the dam and the sewer system to maximize this opportunity to accomplish projects with the lower lake levels.
• See details later in this report under the dam and sewer system sections. 

 

CAN WE ACCESS THE LAKE? 

 

The Town of Lake Lure and all businesses are open and welcoming visitors; however, the lake itself remains closed to all unauthorized personnel.  Do not enter the lake or the lakebed for everyone's safety, and to avoid fines. 

 

WHEN WILL THE LAKE REOPEN?   

 

The Town of Lake Lure remains hopeful that we will be able to reopen the lake in the late spring of 2026.   You may read the Town's Press Release on the reopening timeline here.

 

SHORELINE DEBRIS

 

GREAT NEWS!

Town Officials are aware that shoreline debris remains around the lake and in several coves. The Town of Lake Lure has secured a plan with the state SMART program to pick up shoreline debris that remains.  Please stay tuned for additional information as this plan is formulated and a timeline is confirmed. 

 

LAKE LURE WATER QUALITY

 

Please see the attached water sample results from November 2025.  We are pleased to report that the latest results are all within acceptable limits. 

• You may review the updates spreadsheet, which illustrates all the water sample data received by the Town of Lake Lure.
• This data is current through 11/12/25.
• Fecal coliform and turbidity were higher than usual on 10/27/25 for the samples taken at the Broad River and Broad River above Chimney Rock.
• It was raining heavily that day, so it is normal to see elevated levels of fecal coliform and turbidity.
• The readings returned to normal the week after and continue to test within normal ranges.
• For questions, please contact Communications@townoflakelure.com.

DEMOLITIONS

 

Sadly, the Geneva Hotel and Tiki Bar was taken down this month.  You may follow this link for additional information on the demolition posted by their organization: https://www.facebook.com/share/r/17MaAAkMLA/?mibextid=wwXIfr They will be missed!

 

CELL TOWER UPDATES

It's Coming!

 

For those who have experienced challenges with phone service in Lake Lure, you can see the progress on the cell tower here!  

• The location of the cell tower is off Boys Camp Road on the old campground property. 
• Tillman Infrastructure is building the tower and will own it.
• The tower foundation has been constructed, the equipment platform is in place.
• The tower pole is being manufactured and is scheduled to be delivered next week.
• The tower is scheduled to be in place on the foundation by December 4th. 
• AT&T will then mount their antennas, then T-Mobile and Verizon will be putting their antennas on next.   
• We expect to have improved cell coverage by the first of 2026. 
   

KEEP IT IN THE ROAD!

 

Highway 64/74A Beyond Chimney Rock Village: Highway 64/74A heading West beyond Chimney Rock Village remains closed to the public at large. It is open to "locals", which is defined as those who live and work in the area. Please do not use this road if you do not have to, as contractors have to stop their work to allow for passage when cars go by, slowing the recovery process. 

NC DOT updates on Highway 64: A temporary road is expected to be open between Chimney Rock and Hendersonville was extended to June 30, 2027 (YES, 2027). For more information, visit NC DOT’s Drive NC link: https://drivenc.gov/?type=incident&id=715074      

Update from Gerton Fire and Rescue: "We would like to impress that these roads are for local traffic only. We have had a surge in tourists over the last few weeks. Please stay out of the gorge if you do not live there and let them work." Gerton Fire Chief.

Directions to Lake Lure from I-26: Lake Lure is just 14 miles from I-26: At the first exit in North Carolina, Exit #67 (Columbus and Highway 108), turn left onto Highway 108 East. Follow 108 East for approximately 6 miles to the intersection of Highway 108 and Highway 9 (a traffic stoplight). Turn left onto Highway 9 North. Go 8 miles to the stop sign (Lake Lure will be in front of you).

From Asheville: From I-26 - Take Exit #67 (Rutherfordton - Highway 108), once you exit, turn left onto Highway 108 East. Follow 108 East for approximately 6 miles to the intersection of Highway 108 and Highway 9 (a traffic stoplight). Turn left onto Highway 9 North. Go 8 miles to the stop sign (Lake Lure will be in front of you).

Proctor Road: Paving is taking place this week.  Jersey Barriers will be installed.  Thank you to the residence for their patience as this work was completed. 

West End Paving: Once paving is complete on Proctor Road, the crew will shift to work on the West end. 

Charlotte Road: Public Works projects paving and repairs on Charlotte Drive should be done by the end of the year. 

Boys Camp Road Bridge: We hope to be able to begin the project in the first quarter of 2026.

 

MEETING THE MARK

 

The following is a summary of the high-level meetings from the past two weeks.

• Town Council Storm Recovery Meetings: Town Council met with Town leaders to discuss and move forward the ongoing work of the storm recovery.  Updates are included throughout this report.

• Virtual Comprehensive Planning Public Input Session: Town Officials, along with leaders from the Foothills Regional Commission dialed into a virtual session to gather public input on their priorities for the Comprehensive Plan.

• Rutherford County Tourism Development Authority (TDA) Meeting: Town Officials met with the Rutherford County TDA to discuss marketing ideas for teh holiday season.

• In-person Comprehensive Planning Public Input Session: Town Officials, along with leaders from the Foothills Regional Commission held an in-person event to gather public input on their priorities for the Comprehensive Plan.

• Family Assistance Program Meeting: Town Officials met to discussion the process for developing a formal Family Assistance Program in the event of a future dissaster.

• Foothills Regional Planning Organization Technical Coordinating Committee Meeting: Town Officials participated in a Foothills Regional Planning Organization Technical Coordinating Committee Meeting to provide technical guidance and coordination for transportation planning, review and prioritize projects, and make recommendations to the Transportation Advisory Committee (TAC) and other agencies.

• Monthly Administrative Meeting: Town Officials met to continue to enhance administrative functions.

• Centennial Planning Meeting: Town Officials met to continue to plan for the Town's Centennial Events in 2026-2027.

• Lake Lure Flowering Bridge (LLFB) Meeting: Town Officials met with LLFB leaders to review the new lease. 

• Dredging & Individual Permit Meeting: Town Officials met to plan for future dredging and permitting requirements.

• FEMA Meeting:  Town Officials continue to meet with FEMA Officials to advance the complex public assistance projects. 

• Town Council Regular Meeting: Town Council held their Regular Meting on 11/4/25.  Updates are included throughout this report but you may review the meeting summary here.

• Town Council Work Session and Action Meeting: Town Council held their Work Session and Action Meting on 11/19/25.  Updates are included throughout this report.   

• Economic Development Administration (EDA): Town officials met with EDA officials to discuss the grant application process.

• Lake Lure Dam Meeting: Town officials met with engineers from Schnabel Engineering to discuss the spillway crest repairs project.

• USACE/AshBritt Meeting: Town Officials met with USACE and AshBritt Officials to close out the lake restoration project. 

• Veterans Day Program: Town Officials met to plan for the Veterans Day Program on 11/11/25 at 9:oo at Rumbling bald on Lake Lure. 

• Rutherford County TDA Board Meeting: Town Officials participated in a Rutherford County TDA Board Meeting and confirmed that donated funds froma community member could be utilized to assist with the Lake Lure Fire Station II costruction project to expand quarters for additional firefighters.

• Sewer Collection System Economic Development Administration (EDA)/Department of Environmental Quality DEQ Meeting:  Town Officials met with EDA and DEQ officials to discuss Lake Lures sewer collection system and fincial needs for ongoing restoration.

• The following Board Meetings were held: Lake Advisory Board, ABC Board, Short Term Rental Board, and the Zoning and Planning Board.

• LaBella/ICF Meeting: Town officials met with LaBella Engineers and ICF representatives to review and discuss related claims involving the sewer system.

• Lake Lure Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) Meeting: Town officials met to review and discuss the Town's HMGP status through FEMA.  HMGP provides funding to governments to develop hazard mitigation plans and rebuild in ways that reduce or mitigate future disaster losses in their communities. 

• Town Council Work Session and Action Meeting: Town Council held their Work Session and Action Meeting on 9/24/25.  Updates are included throughout this report. You may download a summary of the meeting here.

• Media: Town Officials conducted interviews with reporters from Newsmax. 

• Interview: Mayor Pritchett participated in an interview with Princeton University.   

• ICF Meetings: Lake Lure Town Officials met with ICF officials regularly to discuss the progress, status, and information required for FEMA reimbursements since Hurricane Helene.

• Holiday Lighting Meeting: Town Officials met to plan for teh holiday lights for teh upcoming season.  The following are planned: 

  • The Town festivities officially begin on 12/3/25, the date of the “Lighting Up Lake Lure” celebration at 5:30 pm at the Lake Lure Gazebo. 
  • All Town lighting will feature warm white lights.
  • Large lighted snowflakes are on each of the Town flag poles throughout Town. 
  • Morse Park will be featured this year and will have a lighted pathway from the parking lot to the Gazebo.
  • The Gazebo is outlined in lights and will have a lighted tree in the center.
  • The Gazebo will also be decorated with various holiday scenes.
  • A family of lighted deer will be highlighted in the grass.
  • The Pool Creek Bridge has lighted garland with wreaths on each end. 
  • The Veterans Memorial is outlined in lights and has uplighting. 
  • A large lighted tree will be placed in the median between the Lake Lure Inn and the Arcade Building.
  • There are a few additional holiday decorations that will be put in place around Town to add to the holiday decor.

• Media: Town Officials worked with a team from various media outlets to promote Lake Lure ad the storm recovery. 

• Schnabel Engineering Meeting: Town officials met with Schnabel Engineers and ICF representatives to discuss FEMA reports.

• Land of Sky Meeting: Land of Sky held a meeting to discuss their proposal. Ultimately the request for a sewer connection witht he Town of Lake Lure was not approved at the Town Council meeting 11/19/25.

• State Mission Assigned Recovery Task (SMART) Program Meeting: Town Officials met with SMART program officials to secure a plan for additinal debris removal in around Lake Lure.  The SMAARAT program is a North Carolina initiative to help local governments with disaster debris removal and demolition of unsafe structures. The program uses pre-positioned state contractors and helps local taxpayers by having FEMA reimburse the costs. 

 

 IN THE NEWS

 

The following is a summary of some of the relevant news coverage Since the last report. 

1) NCDEQ visits Lake Lure to assess Helene progress, resilience: Watch the newscast here.

 

by Gracie Palmer

Fri, November 14, 2025 at 5:17 PM

Updated Fri, November 14, 2025 at 6:50 PM

The North Carolina Secretary of the Department of Environmental Quality, Reid Wilson, visited Lake Lure on Friday, Nov. 14, to see the town’s progress firsthand.

The Secretary and his team met with Mayor Carol Pritchett to discuss not only rebuilding efforts but also future resiliency projects.

 

2) State, nonprofits move to protect 3,700 acres near Lake Lure. ‘Huge win for conservation'

George Fabe Russell

Hendersonville Times-News

Thousands of acres of “incredible habitat” near Lake Lure in Rutherford and McDowell counties are set to be protected and opened to the public, part of a planned forest corridor connecting public lands across the region called Hickorynut Mountain.

“It’s just a huge win for conservation in North Carolina,” Katie Hall, a board member at the NC State Park Partners Foundation, one of the groups behind the project, told the Times-News Nov. 17.  Read more here.

 

3) Boy scout honors late Lake Lure mayor with memorial bench

By Morgan Starling The Daily Courier

Nov 18, 2025

A dedication ceremony was held in Morse Park in Lake Lure on Saturday for the new memorial bench in remembrance of late mayor Kevin Cooley.

The effort was led by current Mayor Carol Pritchett’s grandson, Cole Pritchett, who lives in Mount Pleasant and is a local boy scout. He wanted his Eagle Scout project to have something to do with storm recovery in Lake Lure.

Cooley died unexpectedly while in office in 2019, and to remember him, the town put a memorial bench near the Lake Lure gazebo in Morse Park. But that bench was washed away in Hurricane Helene.

“He was just such a wonderful person,” Mayor Pritchett said. “He was in office, not for very long, just under two years. He was an engineer, and it was such a perfect time to have him.

“It was though he were just sent to us, because we were in the middle of beginning to look at our aging infrastructure and he just contributed so much in that way and provided such leadership.”

Cole spent more than a year working on the bench project, fundraising and planning the ceremony, which included recruiting the local boy scout troop to participate as the color guard and ensuring Cooley’s wife, Yvonne Cooley, who now lives in Florida, could attend.

Yvonne said her late husband had a beautiful love affair with the town of Lake Lure.  Read more here.

 

4) North Carolina leaders call for FEMA reform, faster disaster recovery

Lawmakers, scientists and community leaders gathered at the sixth annual WATERS Summit in Wilmington to discuss FEMA reform, disaster recovery delays and North Carolina’s flood resilience.

Posted 3:46 PM Nov 12, 2025

More than a year after Hurricane Helene devastated western North Carolina, communities are still rebuilding and still waiting for federal aid. That frustration was front and center Wednesday at the annual WATERS Summit in Wilmington, where lawmakers, scientists and local leaders met to discuss how to make the state more resilient to flooding and future storms.

The event was organized by U.S. Reps. Greg Murphy and David Rouzer, who launched the summit six years ago to foster collaboration on waterway management and flood prevention. Both lawmakers joined remotely because of a same-day vote in Congress to reopen the federal government. Read more here.

 

5) GreyRock, once slated for luxury housing, conserved for nature preserve near Lake Lure

Rose Lane Special to the Asheville Citizen Times

Conserving Carolina has purchased 483 acres of mountain land north of Lake Lure — the last major piece in a 2,669-acre protected wilderness adjacent to Chimney Rock State Park. This land, with its vast unbroken forests and stunning views, will offer extraordinary trails, preserve vital wildlife habitat, and provide clean water flowing out of the mountains. It could even provide the link between two state trails — the Hickory Nut Gorge State Trail and the Wilderness Gateway State Trail.  Read more here.

 

COMPREHENSIVE PLANNING UPDATE

• There have now been one virtual and one in-person input session for the comprehensive plan, and a round-table style session is scheduled for December 10th at 6:00 PM at the Landings.
• The online survey also remains open at this time. Please click on the following link to take the survey. https://arcg.is/1zH9aa1
• Focus groups are being established to provide more specialized input opportunities.
• Once all public input has been collected, Foothills Regional Commission, in coordination with the Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee, will begin review and preparation of the draft plan, followed by final plan development.
• The completed plan will then be presented to the Zoning and Planning Board for recommendation, with final approval to be considered by Council.
• The anticipated timeline for completion is July 2026.

 

LAKE LURE DAM

 

• Tainter gate seal repairs are currently out for informal bidding, and a construction pre-bid meeting was held with four contractors in attendance.
•  Bids are due on November 18th.
•  The selected contractor will be required to complete the project by February 8th, which aligns with the Town’s plan to return the lake to full pond by the end of May, weather permitting.
•  The Town was recently awareded a FEMA High Hazard Potential Dam Grant totally $484,500 for the 30% design of the replacement dam. This is a major step forward in the process of constructing the new dam.

 

WATER AND SEWER SYSTEM 

 

• The next phase design submittal for the sewer replacement project is expected by the end of the month, with permitting coordination continuing with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) and the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ).
• The Town has successfully submitted an application for Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) funding for the sewer replacement.
• Applications have also been submitted for both Helene State Revolving Fund (SRF) and regular SRF funding through DEQ for the sewer and Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) replacement projects.
• The Town continues to pursue additional funding opportunities through FEMA Public Assistance (PA), Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) programs, the North Carolina Office of State Budget and Management (OSBM), the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA), and other programs as they become available.
• Work on the main line for the West End Sewer project is complete, with pressure testing conducted on November 14th in coordination with LaBella.
• If testing is successful, the system will be ready for use, with the exception of one additional line needed to connect a single homeowner.
• This line is ready to proceed now that the Department of Transportation (DOT) approved the road cut last week.
• Full demobilization and project completion are anticipated within approximately two weeks, after which repaving of the affected areas will begin.
• The only remaining items are the installation of the flow meter for Chimney Rock Village and the SCADA system, with the flow meter expected in December.

 

CONTRACTOR INFORMATION

 

Only approved contractors may access properties from the lake, by boat or barge, but any contractor or property owner may work on lake structures (with permits) if accessing from land.  This includes sea wall construction or restoration (again, with required permits).   You may emailkmartin@townoflakelure.com"> kmartin@townoflakelure.com with any questions.

Click here for additional information on contractors.

 

DAMAGED LAKE STRUCTURES

 

The Community Development Department has created a map showing most of the seriously damaged lake structures, over 100 boathouses.  These are properties that the owners agree to the demo of the boathouse. If you have damages, be aware that you will need to contact the Community Development Department about permitting for repairs or replacement.  Permits are being issued and work is being done on lake structures now, but all work must be authorized. 

Update 10/31/25:

• Unfortunately, the Town has been advised that the request for demolition through the USACE has been denied. 
• Town officials are working to identify alternative solutions.
• If you have questions regarding your property, call Community Development at kmartin@townoflakelure.com or 828-625-9983, x 135.

 

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 now 34 projects that have been submitted to FEMA for consideration of funding and the Town is awaiting their review and feedback.

8/13/25 update: Nine FEMA-funded projects have been obligated. The Town has received $2,325,171.92 for seven of these, and two additional reimbursements totaling $38,212.80 are pending. Delays persist for projects over $100,000, and staff have begun contacting elected officials to address these concerns. 

8/20/25 update: One additional project was obligated (totaling 10 obligated) and the total amount pending reimbursement is $783,697.92.

Several other projects are currently under review by FEMA. While the process continues to move slowly, we are seeing progress, and these projects are inching closer to obligation.

• Diving Operations at the Dam ($700K range)
• Flowering Bridge Demo: Version 0 - will have to argue costs. 
• Community Center/Welcome Center: Came back at $160,000, which is far too low.
• Marina Docks
• Lake buoys and booms.

9/10/25 update: Newly received funding:

• $13,255.75 – Category A: Dumpster rentals 
• $28,531.78 – Category B: Temporary Relocation Costs – Town Hall Facility
• $9,681.02 – Category F: Municipal Water Supply Damage – 100% Complete Work

9/18/25 update: $2.8 million obligated for Flowering Bridge Demo: Version 0 - As noted above, Town officials will have to argue costs. The $2.8 million currently obligated represents a preliminary estimate, intended to provide the Town with initial funds to cover demolition costs already incurred and to support efforts to develop accurate replacement cost estimates. The Town is actively pursuing discussions with FEMA to negotiate a fixed cost offer based on the true cost of replacement. It is the Town’s intention that these valuable funds be directed toward priority recovery projects that will strengthen and restore our critical infrastructure. Read here for additional details.

11/20/25: The Town received a check for $8,913.73 from FEMA for reimbursement. 

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 reimbursements	Up to $7,500,000	5/2/25 Update: 5 projects now obligated for a total of $3,224,564.61. ·$862,186.69 Received 4/25 for a Category A (Debris Removal) 5/18/25 Update: $754,185.81 (anticipated 5/25) for a Category B (Emergency Protective Measures) (payment received) 5/23/25 Update: Received a check for $65,390.00 for Category A Town Wide Vegetative Debris Removal from ROW and Public Property. A new project was obligated for $118,323.67 for Category B Temporary Hydroelectric Plant Emergency Repairs. (payment received) 6/23/25 Update: Received a check for the Boys Camp Road Bridge Damage: $503,580 (Category C);  8/4/25 Update: Received $8,250 for Temporary Town Hall Facility (Category B);  Received $13,255.75 for Lake Lure Dumpster Rentals (Category A); 9/10/25 update: Newly received funding: $13,255.75 – Category A: Dumpster rentals; $28,531.78 – Category B: Temporary Relocation Costs – Town Hall Facility; $9,681.02 – Category F: Municipal Water Supply Damage – 100% Complete Work 11/12/25: $8,913.73 from FEMA for reimbursement.
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 Town 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    6/23/25: The Town was offered an additional $2.8 million in cash flow funds from the State Treasurer.  A recommendation regarding this offer will be made to Town Council for consideration. 6/25/25: Town Council approved the loan. 7/29/25: Received a $2.8 million dollar loan disbursement this week from the NC Treasurer

 

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: 

• Hickory Nut Gorge Outreach: https://hickorynutgorgeoutreach.org/one-time-donation/
• Hurricane Helene – Força Foundation: https://forcafoundation.com/hurricane-helene/
• RHI Legacy Foundation will match any donation up to $50,000 at www.rhilegacyfoundation.com
• Restore Lake Lure Fundraising Campaign: https://www.restorelakelure.com/  The Restore Lake Lure campaign seeks to bridge the gap between governmental support and personal sacrifice."
• The Foundation For Lake Lure/Chimney Rock Area Businesses: https://foundation4lakelurechimneyrock.com/home\
• United Way of Rutherford County at www.unitedwayofrutherford.org

 

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 clean-up 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 were removed from the right of way, 27,669 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 strengthen the economy.

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 Firefights/AMTs.

3/27/25: Reservoir Drain Valve Installation complete.

4/24/25: 371 +/- boats that have been removed from the lake.

4/25/25: Reopened the East entrance to Morse Park.

5/2/25: $862,186.69 Received 4/25 for a Category A (Debris Removal)

5/11/25: $754,185.81 Received for a Category B (Emergency Protective Measures)

6/12/25: New seawall completed at the Lake Lure Gazebo

6/13/25: New pavers replaced broken and missing pavers in the Morse Park walkway and in front of the Lake Lure Beach. 

6/17/25: The Lake Lure Beach was replenished with fresh sand.  

6/23/25:  The Town received a check for the Boys Camp Road Bridge Damage: $503,580 (Category C)

6/25/25: Cash flow loan approved for $$2.8 million.

6/27/25: Downslide repaired on Angler's Way. 

7/21/25: Repairs on Boys Camp Road completed.

7/21/25: Debris and silt/sedimentation removal from the Rumbling Bald Beach and Marina are complete.

7/28/25: Town Hall relocated to temporary office space in The Landings. The official opening date for the public is 8/1/25.

7/28/25: The Town received the $2.8 million loan disbursement this week from the NC Treasurer.

8/7/25:  Received $8,250 from FEMA for Temporary Town Hall Facility (Category B);  Received $13,255.75 from FEMA for Lake Lure Dumpster Rentals (Category A).

8/13/25: Silt/sedimentation removal began in Washburn Marina and coves around the lake, like Tryon Bay.

8/20/25: Asheville Tennis Association presented the Town of Lake Lure with a check for $19,000 to help rebuild our future tennis/pickleball courts.

8/20/25: The Lake Lure Fire Department received a $50,000 grant for support in upgrading Lake Lure Station II.

8/20/25: One additional project was obligated (totaling 10 obligated) and the total amount pending reimbursement is $783,697.92.

8/30/25: West end Sewer System largely restored. 

9/10/25:  FEMA funding received: $13,255.75 for Dumpster rentals, $28,531.78 for Temporary Relocation Costs – Town Hall Facility, $9,681.02 for Municipal Water Supply Damage

9/19/25: Proctor Road restoration project complete.

9/26/25: The Town received a total of $380,000 in a FEMA HHPD Grant for the Field Investigation Project that was recently completed.

9/27/25: Lake Lure and Chimney Rock came together to hold a one year Commemoration Ceremony 

10/15/25: The new KaBOOM! Playground equipment was installed 10/13/25 - 10/15/25 through a grant from BCBS.  Over 100 volunteers participated in the installation.

10/31/25: Partial completion of the West end connector allowing The 828, Hair Therapy, and those on Buddy Lane to connect to the water and sewer system. 

11/14/25: Town received FEMA High Hixard Potential Dam Grant for $434,500 for 30% of the design work for the replacement dam.

11/17/25: Work on the main line for the West End Sewer project is complete.

11/19/25: USACE completed lake restoration.

ONGOING

• Emergency repairs to the sewer system.
• Constant removal of silt, sedimentation, and debris from the lake and roadways.
• Removal of condemned boathouses and personal property debris removal.
• Town officials are working to develop a comprehensive plan for future prosperity in the Town of Lake Lure.   

 

VISIT THE TOWN OF LAKE LURE!

 

 

 

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. 

Download the 2025 Travel Guide here.  

Please visit the Local Restaurant Guide

Download the Falling Back in Love with Lake Lure and Chimney Rock Passport

And here are some of the amenities that are currently open to the public.  

• East entrance of Morse Park, the walkway and the Lake Lure Gazebo REOPENING 11/21/25!
• Morse Park and the Lake Lure Gazebo (Temporarily closed for restoration)
• Dittmer-Watts Nature Trails
• Lake Lure Green Space
• Pool Creek Picnic Park
• Check out the New Flowering Bridge Education Center and Gardens as they are being created

           

These amenities are in Lake Lure and are open to the public.

• Youngs Mountain
• Rumbling Bald Golf Courses
• Chimney Rock State Park  (But reservation only) 
• Chimney Rock State Park – Rumbling Bald Access - Click here to reserve your tickets!

Additionally, horseback riding is available in the area along with zip lining, escape rooms, a candy cabin, and so much more!

Buffalo Creek Park/Weed Patch Mountain Trail/Upper Boulders Trail: Ongoing work is also taking place at Buffalo Creek Park, Weed Patch Mountain, and the 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!  Progress continues to be made on Upper Boulders Trail, and a small section may be opening soon. The Town received a grant of $50,000 to assist with restoration.  Please stay tuned for updates!

Upcoming Events:

• 12/3/25: Town Lighting Up Lake Lure Holiday Event at the Gazebo (5:30 PM)  (Weather backup plan is Roosevelt Hall)

• 12/9/25 @ 5:00 pm: Town Council Meeting (The Landings)

• 12/10/25 @ 6:00 pm: Comprehensive Planning Round Table Meeting (The Landings) 

• 12/5/25 - 1/4/26: Joy to the Gorge Events

• 12/5/25 @ 5:00: Chamber of Hickory Nut Gorge Gala

 

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