The ADA is The Voice of Downtown by communicating concerns, advocating for policies, maintaining relationships with city and county officials and staff, and addressing important social issues. We are committed to the preservation and improvement of the central business district through programming, civic support and annual objectives. Representing downtown residents, merchants and workers, we advocate for practices that encourage smart growth and preserve the quality of life in downtown.
We formed the Asheville Downtown Association Foundation to carry out the altruistic goals of the ADA. The foundation’s main area of focus is the Spare Change for Real Change Program.
We also host the annual the State of Downtown Luncheon, featuring updates on downtown issues and projects from an ADA, city and county perspective, and the Downtown Heroes Celebration recognizing individuals who have made a significant impact on Downtown Asheville.
Another part of our mission is to bring more people to Downtown Asheville and we do that through our events and marketing. Downtown After 5, Oktoberfest, the Asheville Holiday Parade and the Holiday Windows Contest bring thousands of people, both residents and visitors, to downtown every year.