FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 15, 2024
Boone, NC – On September 27, 2024, Hurricane Helene devastated Western North Carolina, causing mass flooding, landslides, and widespread power outages in both Avery County (Banner Elk and Linville areas) and Watauga County (Boone and Blowing Rock areas). Despite the unprecedented destruction, Foscoe Companies, the developer of Echota and The Bluffs at Blowing Rock, and owner of Foscoe Rentals is determined to press forward, supporting the region’s recovery while continuing to serve property owners and visitors.
The Boone Area Chamber of Commerce published as statement on October 11, 2024 that we’ve summarized:
Boone and Blowing Rock have made significant recovery progress following the storm, with most primary and secondary roads repaired, though some areas still face lane closures and detours. Visitors are encouraged to avoid areas heavily involved in recovery efforts, particularly in northern and western Watauga County, where road work and debris removal are ongoing. Lodging remains limited due to displaced families and aid workers occupying many properties, but retail and restaurants are open, especially in downtown Boone. Travelers should consider public transit or ride-sharing to ease traffic. Patience and empathy are requested, as many residents are still facing disruptions.
Avery County is still in the midst of storm cleanup efforts, with many areas continuing to experience power and water outages. Road repairs and debris removal are ongoing, causing delays in full recovery. Residents and businesses in the county are still working through significant disruptions, and additional time will be needed to restore services and infrastructure to pre-storm conditions.
Power and internet have now been restored to most of Watauga County, including the Echota community. The Foscoe Companies sales and operations teams are fully operational, doing everything possible to ensure the safety and security of our properties and our people. We’re grateful for the tireless efforts of our local crews and neighbors, who have shown incredible resilience during this challenging time.
Jay Harrill, CEO of Foscoe Companies, shared his reflections on the aftermath of the storm:
“We were heartbroken to witness the damage Hurricane Helene caused across the High Country. Our immediate concern was for the safety of our team, their families, our neighbors, and the community. Today, our sadness has given way to optimism as we begin seeing incredible efforts to rebuild and heal. This 1,000-year storm knocked us down but has also brought us closer together. The community’s strength, kindness, and unity have been nothing short of inspiring. We are committed to being part of this recovery process, and we want everyone to know that we are fully operational and will continue to help our region rise from this tragedy.”
We are incredibly grateful for the overwhelming support and generosity we’ve received from the community. Thanks to your kindness, we now have many essential items needed related to food and clothing. However, monetary donations are still encouraged and distributed to those most affected through local organizations and churches. Donations can be made at our Main Office. Thank you for your continued support and understanding. We encourage everyone to continue supporting these efforts financially, and here are a few links to local groups making a difference:
- Explore Boone
- Boone Chamber of Commerce
- WineToWater (Every Dollar Matched up to $500,000)
- Boone Chamber of Commerce Donation Intake and Pickup Instructions
- Appalachian State University Disaster Relief Fund
As travel remains limited and some local roads remain impassable, we urge our community members and guests to stay informed by following updates from Watauga County officials. Our property management team is diligently inspecting and assessing any storm-related damages to ensure the safety of all Echota residents and property owners.
Foscoe Companies is proud to be part of this remarkable region and, alongside our community, will continue to support the recovery and healing process. We remain hopeful and committed to moving forward—together.
For additional information, please contact our office at (828) 963-7600.