Appalachian State University

Appalachian State University

App State's Future

  • Building Physical Infrastructure
  • Empowering Human Potential
  • Contact

Boone Creek Daylighting

Boone Creek Daylighting map

This map indicates the existing Boone Creek culvert, in black, and the study area, in red, that are part of an initial feasibility study underway with Jennings Environmental. Image courtesy of New River Conservancy. Click on the image for a full view of the map.

The daylighting of Boone Creek is one of several major construction projects being planned at Appalachian State University to enhance the App State Experience.

The project supports the strategic plan of App State and the university’s goals and metrics associated with the University of North Carolina System’s strategic plan. It will benefit students, academics and the community.

About

Daylighting Boone Creek in the area of Duncan Hall and Peacock Hall aligns with the objective included in the Master Plan 2025 to improve Rivers Street and expose the campus’s natural ecosystems.

It would allow this section of Boone Creek to become a place for education, contemplation and natural inspiration, while also helping mitigate flooding and stormwater runoff issues — much as Durham Park has become for a lower section of Boone Creek near the main campus entrance.

In connection with this project is the possible construction of a parking deck near Peacock Hall with 600-plus spaces and the redesign of traffic flow for buses.

Boone Creek Daylight rendering

An early concept drawing of what the exposed Boone Creek and redesigned parking and traffic flow near Peacock Hall might look like. Image courtesy of App State Planning, Design and Construction

Status

A feasibility study for the creek’s daylighting, which included community information and listening sessions, was conducted in 2019-20 by the university, New River Conservancy, Town of Boone and Jennings Environmental.

The report, which was funded by NC Clean Water Management Trust Fund, App State and the Town of Boone, is complete and the project awaits future funding decisions.

How is it funded?

Funding allocated to App State by the North Carolina General Assembly as part of the FY 2021–22 biennial budget bill, signed into law by Gov. Roy Cooper on Nov. 18, 2021, allows the university to initiate work to begin the planning for daylighting Boone Creek. The budget includes $79 million for capital projects and $43.15 million for one-time repair and renovation project support.

Who will benefit?

The entire campus and local community will benefit for technical and aesthetic reasons. Stormwater control in this area is expected to improve conditions downstream, while a visible creek with natural plants along Rivers Street will enhance the beauty of this major thoroughfare. Science students whose professors use the exposed Boone Creek as a learning tool will also benefit through research and class activities.

How does it support UNC System Goals and Metrics?

An enhanced campus designed with students, faculty, staff and the public in mind supports recruitment and retention of all members of the university and local communities.

Related Links:

  • ASU, Boone, conservancy discuss Boone Creek daylighting proposal
  • Campus Construction Updates
  • Master Plan 2025
  • Innovation District
  • Glossary
  • Parking and Traffic Messages

Major current projects:

  • App State Hickory
  • Conservatory for Biodiversity Education and Research
  • Appalachian 105
  • Residence halls
  • Child Development Center Expansion
  • Arts Corridor
  • Wey Hall
  • Boone Creek Daylighting
  • University Bookstore renovation

Major completed projects:

  • Sanford Hall
  • NPHC Plots and Garden
  • Leon Levine Hall of Health Sciences
  • Kidd Brewer Stadium — North End Zone
  • Founders Plaza
  • Career Development Center relocation
  • Blue Ridge Way
Related News:
Campus View

Appalachian State University’s improvement and development projects approved by UNC Board of Governors

Oct. 12, 2018

During its October meeting, the UNC Board of Governors approved five improvement and development projects at Appalachian, including the Kidd Brewer Stadium north end zone facility, the renovation or replacement of seven residence halls and more.

Learn more

An aerial view of areas receiving millennial campus designation at Appalachian State University. Video by Marie Freeman

Appalachian’s Future

Appalachian State University

287 Rivers St, Boone, NC 28608 | (828) 262-2000 | Copyright 2021 Appalachian State University. All rights reserved.