ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — The city of Asheville has announced the retirement of Planning and Urban Design Director Steph Monson Dahl after 21 years.

Monson Dahl has led efforts to shape Asheville through planning, public engagement and community development work. During her tenure, she played a key role in advancing the city’s vision for the riverfront and central business district.

City officials said she and her team helped secure nearly $50 million in grant funding to support improvements in the River Arts District and downtown Asheville.

She became planning and urban design director in 2023.

“The challenge was less about charting a new course and more about helping the department regain its footing during a period of significant organizational change and, later, in the aftermath of Tropical Storm Helene,” Monson Dahl said in a statement. “I am proud of how our team responded, supported one another and continued serving the community through extraordinary circumstances.”

She said she is now pursuing new opportunities and expressed gratitude to colleagues, community partners and residents. Her last day with the city will be Aug. 21, 2026.

City Manager D.K. Wesley praised her contributions.

“We are thankful to Steph for having played a significant role in shaping Asheville’s public spaces and advancing the public sector’s role in community-centered planning and design,” Wesley said. “As she enters this next chapter, we offer well wishes as she continues to work on meaningful projects in the community and makes more time to enjoy what matters most.”

Assistant Planning and Urban Design Director Chris Collins will serve as interim director until a permanent replacement is named.