Measles cases in Buncombe, highway projects delayed, Riverside Stump Dump fire, and weekend events in Asheville.

Good morning, this is your Asheville Local Frequency for Saturday, January tenth. We start today with a quick public health note. Buncombe County health officials have confirmed three cases of measles in the county, though none so far inside the city of Asheville itself. Health and Human Services is urging families to double check MMR vaccinations, especially for kids, and to call a doctor if you see symptoms like high fever, cough, or a blotchy rash. Clinics are ramping up outreach, so expect to hear more from your pediatrician and local schools on that in the coming days. In city news that affects just about anyone who drives, transportation officials say relief on our highways is still a few years off. The widening of I 26 is now projected to wrap up in 2027, and the massive I 26 Connector project over the French Broad, including new lanes on 240 and I 26 near downtown, is expected to run through about 2031. That means more construction zones and shifting traffic patterns ahead, but planners say the new interchanges should eventually ease big choke points like Long Shoals and Brevard Road and change how commuters and visitors move through the city. Closer to the river, firefighters spent part of yesterday dealing with a blaze at the Riverside Stump Dump, between Riverside Drive and the French Broad just north of the River Arts District. Heavy smoke was visible for hours while crews and mulch yard workers spread out piles to get the fire under control. The cause is still under investigation, but if you noticed hazy skies or smelled smoke along the river, that is what you were seeing. If you are looking for things to do today, the North Carolina Arboretum is hosting Trolls: A Field Study, a whimsical outdoor exhibition of giant interactive troll sculptures exploring the grounds and drawing families out onto the winter trails. Over at The Grey Eagle tonight, singer songwriter Maggie Antone takes the stage at 8 p.m. for an intimate concert, part of a run of January shows energizing the local venue scene. In Tryon, UNC Asheville kicks off its track and field season with the Collegiate Opener, giving Bulldog athletes and fans a first look at this year’s squad. This has been Asheville Local Frequency. We’ll see you tomorrow with more local updates. For more http://www.quietplease.ai Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOta This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.