Last Updated on November 13, 2026 10:37 am
The Town of Blowing Rock’s latest Message From the Manager recaps the Nov. 10 Town Council meeting, where council unanimously adopted new commercial design standards and approved Winter Fest dates through 2029. It also covers infrastructure progress, winter salt supplies, a Veterans Day program and Christmas events.
Commercial design standards adopted
Council passed Ordinance 2026-06 unanimously, establishing preferred colors, expanded design guidance and new commercial property maintenance requirements. Key changes include:
- Preferred color chart: 25 preferred colors chosen to better complement Blowing Rock’s natural surroundings and character. The existing approved color options remain available as an alternative, and colors outside the approved charts remain prohibited.
- Historic colors: Historic color use may be considered with supporting documentation, such as photographs or other historical evidence.
- Brick and roofing: Unpainted brick is strongly encouraged to remain unpainted. Composite roofing materials have been added as an allowable roofing option, subject to approval.
- Appendix F: An expanded appendix provides visual examples of architectural features, building materials, rooflines, awnings and canopies.
New exterior maintenance standards will apply to all commercial properties in town. They address exterior walls and surfaces, awnings and canopies, roofs and drainage, doors and windows, parking lots and driveways, and outdoor storage and refuse areas. Enforcement provisions give staff an initial 60-day period to contact property owners and work toward corrective solutions before formal violation procedures begin.
Winter Fest dates approved
Council approved three years of Winter Fest dates: Jan. 28–31, 2027; Jan. 27–30, 2028; and Jan. 25–28, 2029.
Recognitions and new staff
- The Blowing Rock Fire Department was recognized for 100 years of service.
- Nov. 16, 2026, was officially proclaimed Rotary Club of Blowing Rock Day for the club’s 80 years of local and global community service.
- Bayley Plummer was sworn in by Town Clerk Hilari Hubner as a full-time officer with the Blowing Rock Police Department. Plummer brings a master’s-level education and three years of law enforcement experience with the Appalachian State Police Department.
- Brian Nieft joins the Finance Department as Deputy Finance Officer, bringing extensive county and municipal governmental accounting experience.
- Taylor Miller passed the North Carolina Association of Zoning Officials Certification Exam.
Infrastructure update
- The Park Avenue waterline project is complete.
- The BRAHM parking deck reopens Friday, Nov. 13.
- Laurel Lane sidewalks: Because of weather this week, one section of concrete has been poured and covered. The sidewalk will fully open next week.
- Clary Court sidewalks are to be completed Monday, Nov. 16.
- One portion of the Morris Street sidewalk project is complete.
The town thanked residents for their patience during the infrastructure projects.
Winter weather preparations
Blowing Rock received a salt delivery this week and now has 200 tons on hand. The town has procured 400 tons for the upcoming winter season.
Veterans Day program Saturday
A Veterans Day program is scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 14, at 11 a.m. at the American Legion Building. It is organized by High Country Honoring All Who Served.
Christmas in Blowing Rock
Christmas in Blowing Rock begins Nov. 27. Parks and Recreation is accepting registrations for the 2026 Christmas Parade. A recording of the full Nov. 10 council meeting is available through the town.
