Biltmore Village grapples with the mud's aftermath as residents continue the lengthy cleanup effort

ASHEVILLE, N.C. (WLOS) — The aftermath of Hurricane Helene has left many areas of western North Carolina dealing with large amounts of mud and debris.

Before reconstruction work can begin on homes or businesses, residents must navigate inches-thick mud.

In Biltmore Village, an area hit particularly hard by Helene, many buildings had to pick up the rubble.

Kevin Westmoreland, co-owner of Corner Kitchen, said it was a long process.

Enough mud was kicked up from the sidewalk and steps to get into the building because the mud was six to eight inches deep and quite toxic,” he said.

Westmoreland said they have dealt with flooding in the past, but never to this extent.

“It’s deeper, it’s really thick and heavy. It weighs a lot,” he said.

The exhibit in the Biltmore Village Business showroom survives the historic Helene flood

Westmoreland said they had to remove everything from the building because everything that was on the first floor was flooded and had to be thrown away.

Now, Westmoreland said all walls, ceilings and floors have been removed. The building is also treated for mold and mildew. After a break of at least a week, reconstruction can begin, said Westmoreland.

Looking back over the past few weeks, Westmoreland said the mud has been an important factor to overcome.

He described the village as looking like an “old west town” right after the storm.

Their crews were overly cautious when working in the mud; Westmoreland said they are all wearing long sleeves and N95 masks.

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“We wear gloves, we wear rubber gloves under regular gloves to prevent fluid from getting into our skin,” he said.

He said there was still a lot of dust in the area but that it was getting better day by day.

A week and a half ago, Westmoreland said breathing was difficult, but the air and smell are improving. He said there wasn't much to smell now other than the dirt.

The precautions Westmoreland crews are taking are similar to Buncombe County recommendations.

When it comes to mud, we want to make sure you use PPE when cleaning your home,” said spokesperson Lillian Govus.

She said to wear gloves, goggles, respirators and N95 masks when working in mud.

BILTMORE ESTATE is committing $2 million to local recovery efforts in Helene

On Tuesday, Oct. 22, Westmoreland said they would be pressure washing their porches and patios to remove the last of the mud from their property.

“We’re going to get it out of the way as much as possible, at least on our court,” he said.

Their goal is to rebuild so that people recognize the Corner Kitchen for what it has always been for this community.

Westmoreland said the hope is that they can reopen their doors in time for Easter brunch.