Rebuilding with Resilience: Mentorship, Architecture, and the Future of Asheville’s River Arts District

In the wake of Hurricane Helene’s devastation in late 2024, the rebuilding of Asheville’s River Arts District (RAD) stands as both a challenge and an opportunity—one that requires a deep understanding of architecture, civil engineering, and community resilience. One key participant in this effort is Jason Tankersley, an architect with ELM Ervin Lovett Miller, who is contributing his expertise to both the reconstruction of RAD and the mentorship of future professionals. By working closely with fourth-year architecture students at Kennesaw State University’s Urban Lab studio, Jason is helping to equip the next generation with the skills and knowledge needed to tackle complex urban challenges.

The rebuilding of RAD is more than just repairing structures—it’s about rethinking how the district functions in the face of future climate threats. The French Broad River and Swannanoa confluence, where the district sits, presents unique hydrological challenges. Unlike coastal flood zones, RAD must contend with water from both runoff (above) and river flooding (below). This complex site requires integrated solutions that blend urban planning, resilient design, and hydrological management.

KSU’s Urban Lab studio, led by Professor Jon Gould, AIA, is focused on exploring how Asheville’s resiliency and sustainability plans can be effectively implemented in the River Arts District. The studio challenges students to develop innovative strategies for rebuilding after the floods while preserving the district’s unique identity and ensuring that artists, makers, and vulnerable residents remain integral to the process.

Jason’s involvement with KSU students goes beyond technical guidance. By mentoring students in architecture and urban design, he guides them in developing critical thinking skills, which are essential for real-world problem-solving.

During a recent studio session hosted by LS3P in Asheville, students presented their initial research, drawing from case studies of water-impacted sites—though many of these precedents focused on coastal and tidal regions rather than inland river confluences like RAD. Jason, along with other experts, emphasized the importance of studying entire watersheds, understanding the upstream-to-downstream impact, and questioning fundamental assumptions—such as whether rebuilding RAD in its current location is even the best long-term solution.

The Power of Mentorship in Rebuilding Communities

For Jason, this mentorship is personal. As an alumnus, he understands the value of hands-on learning and real-world application. By engaging directly with students, he is bridging the gap between academia and professional practice, ensuring that future architects and engineers learn to think holistically about resilience and urban planning while putting theory into practice.

Beyond technical solutions, he, the other mentors and students were considering communication hubs—spaces that serve as information-sharing and resource-exchange centers during disasters. These hubs, designed to accommodate local neighborhood and community populations, could be publicly funded and integrated into Asheville’s yearly budget, providing essential services before, during, and after emergencies.

AIA Aspire Conference 2025. Jason Tankersley shown back row center.

Looking Forward

As a member of the AIA Asheville WNC Recovery Group, Jason’s involvement in RAD’s redevelopment is just one part of a broader movement toward sustainable and resilient, community-centered rebuilding. By mentoring KSU students, he is ensuring that the next generation is prepared to tackle the complex challenges of urban resilience—not just in Asheville, but in flood-prone communities across the country.

Rebuilding RAD is about more than restoring what was lost—it’s about redefining what’s possible. With professionals like Jason Tankersley leading the way, and future architects and engineers learning from real-world experience, Asheville’s River Arts District has the opportunity to emerge stronger, more resilient, and more vibrant than ever.

At the conclusion of this studio, students will present their findings and proposals at AIA Aspire in Asheville this September, showcasing their innovative approaches to resilient rebuilding of Asheville’s River Arts District.