20191577 Ver 1_Public Comments_20200219 (2)

Strickland, Bev
From: Beth Thompson <[e-mail]>
Sent: Wednesday, February 19, 2020 7:14 PM
To: SVC_DENR.publiccomments
Subject: [External] Biltmore Farms, LLC
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Hi,
I am sending in a comment about the proposed bridge to be built across the French Broad River as part of
Biltmore Farms' plan to develop approximately 450 acres. As a child growing up in Asheville, I rode my horse
throughout this property. I am struck by what a loss of wild space this will be for animals and environment
there. I feel grateful that I had the opportunity to enjoy the property and recognize that it is Biltmore Farms right
to develop their property as they see fit, it just makes me very sad as we will never get back so many of the
things that make Asheville a wonderful place to live. I wish there was a way to preserve this special place.
That said, I also have real concerns about the impact of a bridge on the French Broad River and concerns about
whether some of this development will be taking place in a Flood Plain. The French Broad floods (of which I
experienced many when I was a child) are very serious. There needs to be VERY CAREFUL planning and
consideration to make sure a project like this is not a detriment to the river, the water quality, and properties
downstream that might be affected by flooding.
I realize that nothing will stop this project, but I am sad to see it. Please make sure that careful conditions are
put in place to preserve that which can be preserved.
Sincerely,
Dr. Beth Thompson
828-768-2120