Asheville Intercity Bus Service Set to Return After Hurricane Hiatus

Asheville Intercity Bus Service Set to Return After Hurricane Hiatus

by

in

ASHEVILLE, N.C. — The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) is set to reinstate intercity bus service in downtown Asheville starting August 1, bringing an end to a near-year suspension that followed the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene in late 2024.

A New Hub for Bus Services

This revitalized service, managed by Greyhound under an agreement with NCDOT’s Integrated Mobility Division, will now operate from a new pickup and drop-off location on Ashland Avenue, situated outside the Asheville Rides Transit (ART) Transit Station. This new location is a notable upgrade from the previous site at a gas station, which was rendered unusable due to hurricane damage.

After months of collaboration between state transportation officials and local leaders, the service is positioned to enhance mobility options for residents.

Focus on Transportation Access

“Restoring service to Asheville has been a top priority,” stated Brennon Fuqua, director of NCDOT’s Integrated Mobility Division. “This initiative not only aims to put buses back on the roads but also to provide our residents with reliable and affordable transportation, creating opportunities for accessing the state and beyond.”

The intercity bus service is supported by federal and state funding while being operated by Greyhound, which connects urban and rural areas throughout North Carolina.

Expanded Connections for Travelers

The resumption of service will offer daily direct routes linking Asheville with key cities across North Carolina, including Charlotte, Winston-Salem, Greensboro, Chapel Hill, and Raleigh. Furthermore, travelers will benefit from connections to national destinations such as Richmond, Norfolk, Washington, D.C., New York City, Atlanta, and Greenville, South Carolina.

The new service features schedules designed for daytime travel, quicker transfers, and seamless connections to regional transit services, significantly enhancing the travel experience.

Community Impact Stressed

Rodney Surber, Chief Operating Officer of Greyhound highlighted the significance of the service for the local community. “Intercity bus travel is essential for many individuals in this area, offering an economical means to visit family and access essential jobs and healthcare throughout North Carolina and beyond,” Surber remarked. “We are thrilled to restore service in Asheville after nearly a year of effort, and express our gratitude to the state and local officials for their collaboration that made this possible.”

Local Government Expresses Optimism

Christopher Whitlock, the Transit Division manager for Asheville, shared his excitement regarding the relaunch of the service and its integration with the city’s transit framework. “We are eager to welcome Greyhound back to Asheville, connecting them directly to our downtown Transit Center. This restoration is vital for enhancing regional mobility and providing our community with a variety of travel options,” he said.

How to Book and More Information

Passengers can book tickets and find additional details on Greyhound’s service by visiting their website or through the Greyhound mobile app. Further information on NCDOT’s Integrated Mobility Division Intercity Bus Service can be accessed on the department’s official website.

This reinstatement of bus services marks a significant step in the recovery process for Asheville and its neighboring communities impacted by Hurricane Helene, reinforcing access to transportation and revitalizing connections across the state.

Popular Categories


Search the website