The City of Asheville is excited to announce the opening of a 24/7 accessible public restroom in the heart of downtown.
Located in the public space at the corner of College Street and Rankin Avenue, the prefabricated facility is designed to enhance downtown amenities, promote public health, and support economic activity – all of which are especially important in the aftermath of Tropical Storm Helene.
A celebratory “toilet paper” ribbon cutting for the Downtown Loo will be held Thursday, November 21 at 11 a.m.
The facility will be open in time for the Asheville Holiday Jamboree on Saturday, November 23 and Small Business Saturday on Saturday, November 30.
The Downtown Loo project was funded by American Rescue Plan Act funds and features a modern, durable design that prioritizes safety, accessibility, and maintainability. Key features include:
– 24/7 Access: Ensuring a public restroom facility open to residents and visitors around the clock.
– ADA Accessibility: Designed to accommodate individuals with disabilities.
– Optimal Location: Proximity to center of downtown activity and adjacent to the Rankin Parking Garage allowing for increased public safety measures.
– Robust Design: Built to withstand heavy use and minimize maintenance costs.
Additional investments in the surrounding public space include a new irrigation system and landscaping, new lighting, and the installation of security cameras.
The City of Asheville would like to thank the many stakeholders who contributed to the planning and development of this project, including downtown businesses, homelessness service providers, residents, the Downtown Commission, and the Asheville Downtown Association, as well as the project team from B. Allen Construction and Osgood Landscape Architecture.
A map of this and other downtown public restroom facilities can be viewed here.
Visit the City of Asheville website for more information.
Written by the City of Asheville.