Jackson County, NC

 

PROJECT CONTACT:

Craig Lehman, President

(828) 631-1050

 

PROJECT BUDGET:

Current overall project budget is over $100 million dollars.

PROJECT PROFILE:

BALSAM MOUNTAIN PRESERVE

PROJECT SPECIFICS:  The Balsam Mountain Preserve project encompasses over 4,400 acres with elevations ranging from 2,600 feet to almost 5,500 feet.  A conservation based development, the project is limited to 350 homesteads.  Amenities include a championship 18-hole golf course designed by Arnold Palmer, an equestrian facility, a sports garden facility with tennis and pool, an extensive network of trails and other natural wonders.  The major amenity for the project is the property itself which is being preserved in a conservation easement.  Over 2,800 acres have already been placed in a conservation easement which is managed by the non-profit Balsam Mountain Trust.

 

 

PROJECT CHALLENGES:  The Balsam Mountain Preserve property has many natural wonders such as native trout streams, magnificent waterfalls, and old growth forests.  The challenge of developing the property is protecting and enhancing these natural surroundings.  With direction from the developers, care is taken with each step of the project to make sure that the property is preserved in every way.  This includes working with Western Carolina University to identify plants that should be relocated before construction begins on any site.  This also includes working with the Soil Science Department at North Carolina State University to develop and implement new and innovative erosion control measures to protect the streams during construction.  Finally, the project involves a “hands on” approach to construction with a team that includes everyone from the contractor to the local erosion control officer to the director of the Balsam Mountain Trust.

PROJECT SCHEDULE:  10 year project (2001 – 2011) The first two phases have been approved for sales by HUD.  Infrastructure and golf course construction are underway.  The Palmer designed golf course is scheduled to open in 2007.

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Phone: 828-687-7177

Fax: 828-687-7178

 

Two Town Square Blvd, Suite 320

Asheville, NC  28803