For over a hundred years travelers have visited Chimney Rock Village, drawn by its historic charm, natural beauty, and idyllic solitude. But when Hurricane Helene slammed the region in late September 2024, the iconic mountain town was pummeled by record-setting rainfall, its foundations ripped away by catastrophic flooding. 

Helene devastated the physical landscape of Chimney Rock Village, making roads impassable, destroying water and sewer systems, and even shifting the course of the Rocky Broad River. But the storm also destroyed the economic underpinnings of the community, which relies on the tourism industry. 

In the face of these challenges, the people of Chimney Rock Village remain resilient and determined to rebuild. Rutherford Bound is linking arms with the town’s residents and government officials to chart a path forward. 

Together, we will Raise the Rock and restore Chimney Rock Village to the vibrant, thriving community it once was. 

A PATH FORWARD 

Raise the Rock is a community-driven Recovery Action Plan that will provide a roadmap for recovery, guiding infrastructure rebuilding while creating a foundation for private investment. This effort is a collaboration between the Chimney Rock Village Task Force, Rutherford Bound, and Destination by Design–a WNC-based engineering and design firm that has years of experience working with The Village. 

This isn’t just about rebuilding what was lost—it’s about reimagining what could be. Raise the Rock is focused on three overarching goals that will lay the groundwork for a stronger, more vibrant Chimney Rock Village. 

Community Resilience–As we restore the town’s physical infrastructure, it is crucial that we strengthen its ability to withstand and recover from future disasters. The rebuilding plans incorporate sustainable design practices, ensuring appropriate locations for infrastructure and emergency access–all while preserving the historic charm of this destination community. 

Efficient and Effective Recovery–Helene destroyed 15 local businesses and damaged dozens more. For a town of just 140 residents whose livelihoods depend on tourism dollars, the economic damage was crippling. Raise the Rock will implement a swift and coordinated recovery process to restore essential services so residents can return home, businesses can re-open, and visitors can return to The Village. 

Economic and Environmental Sustainability–The economic health of Chimney Rock Village is inextricably tied with its outdoor landscape–and both must be safeguarded. Our plan will ensure the long-term economic recovery of the region while preserving and restoring its natural environment.

Community engagement is a crucial aspect of the Recovery Action Plan. As the task force works to restore and revitalize The Village, it is asking to hear from those who live, work, and vacation in Chimney Rock Village. Community meetings, stakeholder input sessions, and public survey data will offer valuable input from the people who care most about the future of The Village. 

Mayor Peter O’Leary is one of those people. Despite everything his community has endured, Mayor O’Leary is enthusiastic about the future of Chimney Rock Village: “I believe the chance to do something special is here–a rebirth, a regrowth of the community.”