Living Local with Marcus Jones

Episode 24: Marcus Jones, Henderson County Engineer – Recycling, Ecusta Trail & RoundaboutsIn Episode 24 of Living Local with Frisbee Real Estate, Ed talks with Marcus Jones, Henderson County Engineer, about the infrastructure that keeps Henderson County running — from solid waste and recycling to Hurricane Helene recovery, the Ecusta Trail, and local roundabouts.Marcus has served Henderson County for nearly 20 years and oversees engineering-related operations including solid waste, the transfer station, utilities, facility services, and coordination with soil and water and the animal shelter. As he puts it, if you live or work in Henderson County, he’s “your county engineer.”Transfer Station vs. LandfillHenderson County transitioned from a traditional landfill to a transfer station system in the mid-1990s due to environmental regulations and long-term costs. Today:Trash is collected at the Stony Mountain Road transfer stationIt’s transported 76 miles to a landfill in Union County, South CarolinaConstruction debris and municipal solid waste follow the same routeThis system allows the county to manage waste efficiently without operating its own landfill.Recycling in Henderson CountyHenderson County ranks in the top 25% of North Carolina counties for recycling. Recycling is:Single-stream (no sorting required at home)Processed at a materials recovery facility in AshevilleOften more cost-effective than trash disposalThe county also offers a popular “bag-for-bag” program at the convenience center: bring equal amounts of recycling and trash, and the trash disposal is free.Residents can learn more at hcrecycles.org or on the Henderson County website.Hurricane Helene RecoveryMarcus discusses the massive cleanup effort following Hurricane Helene, including debris removal and coordination with NCDOT. While road access was restored quickly in many areas, long-term repairs and recovery will continue for years.He highlights the behind-the-scenes work of public works and transportation crews who helped restore access across the county.Ecusta Trail UpdatesThe Ecusta Trail remains one of the county’s most popular projects. Phase One is open and heavily used. Phase Two is moving forward under a design-build partnership with NCDOT, with construction timelines potentially extending into 2028.Temporary closures may occur during upcoming roundabout construction near the trail.Roundabouts in Henderson CountyMarcus explains why engineers favor roundabouts:Move about 20% more traffic than signalized intersectionsReduce severe crashes and fatalitiesLower vehicle speeds and eliminate dangerous T-bone collisionsWhile they require more land and come with a learning curve, they’re considered significantly safer.Local FavoritesMarcus also shares a few Hendersonville favorites:West First Wood-FiredMountain DeliPosteroBiking and outdoor recreation in Pisgah and DuPontFrom waste management and recycling to trail development and transportation safety, this episode offers a practical look at how Henderson County infrastructure supports everyday life.As always — keep living local.