One of Asheville’s most encouraging signs of recovery is happening right on Tunnel Road — where the Walgreens that was washed away by Hurricane Helene is now rising again, bringing back everyday convenience and a sense of normalcy to the community.
We recently visited the site and had the pleasure of meeting Dave Matthew, the Superintendent for the Walgreens remodeling project with WIMCO Corp — and his excitement was infectious. After months of hard work, permits and Lord willing, the store is slated to reopen in about three weeks.
🏗️ WIMCO Corp — Quality, Integrity, and Community
WIMCO is no ordinary contracting firm. Based in Washington, NC, they’re a third‑generation, family‑owned general contractor with more than 50 years of experience. Their core principles — integrity, safety, prompt project completion, client satisfaction, and trust — have cultivated a culture of loyalty and a family of clients and employees. Their reputation has been forged through successful projects across the region.
WIMCO just finished up the Walgreens in Hendersonville, NC, and now they’re putting the finishing touches on this Asheville location. They’re also poised to begin work soon on the Walgreens in Morganton, NC.
🤝 Community Support and Gratitude
Dave shared what it’s like working here in Asheville — and it’s heartwarming. Instead of frustrated reactions or obscenities that crews sometimes hear elsewhere, Asheville residents have been nothing but supportive. Motorists and passersby shout things like:
💛 “Much love to you!”
💚 “Thank you for rebuilding our Walgreens!”
That kind of encouragement truly shows the heart of this community — one that values resilience, kindness, and shared recovery.
🧱 A Showcase of Hard Work
The crew on this project has been grinding seven days a week for the past nine weeks — and with just three weeks to go, it’s clear their dedication is paying off. One of the most exciting design features in this Walgreens is an exposed ceiling, a first for this brand, replacing the traditional drop ceilings and giving the space a fresh, modern feel.
When this store opens, it will mark the third of four devastated corners in this area brought back to life — and that’s a huge milestone for Asheville’s ongoing restoration.
🎉 Cheers to Recovery
From the contractors and subcontractors working tirelessly on site to the joyful residents cheering them on, the revival of Tunnel Road’s Walgreens is more than a hard‑goods story — it’s a story of hope restored, community love, and the strength of Asheville’s spirit.
See you soon — and shop you soon!
📍 Walgreens — Tunnel Road, Asheville, NC
