Haw Creek Housing Development Shifts Focus Amid Affordability Concerns

Greenville Spartanburg Asheville Anderson, SC, October 4, 2026 — A housing development located in the Haw Creek neighborhood of Asheville has undergone a significant alteration, moving away from an initial proposal centered on ‘missing middle’ housing. This shift comes after the previous plan faced obstacles, including neighborhood covenants and a decision by the city council.

The new development plan is being spearheaded by Alair Asheville | Red Tree. Under this revised approach, the project will now comprise fewer homes. These residences are anticipated to range in price from $1 million to $2 million.

The updated development strategy emphasizes preservation and aims to foster a wellness-oriented community. This focus suggests a move towards higher-value, lower-density housing compared to the original concept.

The earlier proposal, intended to provide more affordable housing options often referred to as ‘missing middle’ housing, was ultimately blocked. The reasons cited for its obstruction include neighborhood covenants and opposition or inaction from the city council.

While the new plan prioritizes land preservation, a consequence of the shift is a perceived loss for housing affordability in the area. This outcome has been attributed, in part, to what is commonly described as NIMBYism (Not In My Backyard) sentiments.

The specific number of homes to be built under the new plan was not provided. Additionally, details regarding the timeline for the development or any specific zoning changes that may have occurred were not made public in the summary.

Story summarized from the original created by JOHN BOYLE on avlwatchdog.org, see more information here.

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