Mission Hospital, AdventHealth, UNC Health West and Novant Health are all vying for state approval to add up to 92 beds to their new or existing facilities.

For nearly two years, residents of Tryon and Saluda have had to take a detour that some say has left them feeling isolated and taken a toll on local businesses.

Candidates touched on issues like infrastructure, Helene recovery and the displacement of longtime residents in historically Black communities like Shiloh.

The property sits in a Special Flood Hazard Area. It still needs a flood permit, several rounds of review and a public comment period before it can be built.

Several major projects remain underway in the western part of the state, including the reconstruction of I-40 in the Pigeon River Gorge.

The proposed Asheville facility would combine workforce training, industrial research and product testing as regional leaders seek to expand Western North Carolina’s manufacturing industry.

The project involves striking a balance between protecting the long-term health of the trees and preserving the historic vision of planners Frederick Law Olmsted and Richard Morris Hunt.

Rail advocates say some legislators didn’t want to commit the money because of a delay on the federal side.

While many are hailing the project, some are worried about whether Swannanoa is ready for the influx of visitors the park is expected to bring.

The nonprofit hospital system bought the site for nearly $20 million, according to property records.