N.C. Arboretum upgrades facilities, increases parking fee
The N.C. Arboretum in Asheville recently completed several upgrades to its facilities, including conversion to LED lights in all indoor fixtures. These lights consume 80 percent less energy than conventional light bulbs. The majority of the campus’s indoor lighting has been converted to LED bulbs as well.
In addition, a new front gate system has been installed to allow faster access for visitors and members. The restrooms in the Baker Education Center have been renovated, and six new call boxes have been installed along the trails so that visitors can more quickly access campus police in case of emergency.
These upgrades will cause the arboretum to increase its per-vehicle parking fee from $12 to $14. However, rates for passenger vans, motor homes and commercial buses will remain unchanged and the arboretum will continue to offer half-price parking the first Tuesday of every month for personal vehicles. Pedestrians, bikers and N.C. Arboretum Society members will continue to have free access.
