Unified RAD
Unified RAD is a coalition of property owners, residents, business owners, and artists in Asheville's River Arts District that are focused on short-term reactivation, medium-term rebuilding, and long-term visioning in a way that balances the economy, environment, and creative spirit of the district.
Guided by the shared values of Artistic Creativity, Economic Vitality, and Environmental Stewardship, the Unified RAD coalition of stakeholders is united in bringing to life a bold, cohesive vision for Asheville’s River Arts District—one that honors its creative soul while strengthening its future.
We envision the River Arts District as:
A vibrant cultural epicenter where art is made, experienced, and celebrated—inviting locals and visitors alike to connect directly with the creative process and take home a piece of Asheville’s spirit.
A flourishing creative community that welcomes and inspires a diverse mix of artists, residents, and independent businesses, fostering opportunity, collaboration, and economic resilience.
A national model for innovative urban design, demonstrating how green infrastructure, resilient floodplain activation, and thoughtful disaster preparedness can coexist with beauty, creativity, and human-scaled places.
For more information on Unified RAD's cohesive vision, see the community-led RAD Resilience Plan, as well as a brief narrative on how it came to be.
Also, click the button below to join the Unified RAD email list and stay informed!