In the vibrant tapestry of Asheville, a city nestled amidst the Blue Ridge Mountains, a land-use YouTuber named Taylor Nicholas has emerged as a galvanizing force, advocating tirelessly for a more equitable and sustainable urban landscape. Nicholas, a self-described “urbanist,” uses his YouTube channel, “Urbanist Asheville,” as a platform to dissect complex land-use issues, challenge conventional wisdom, and inspire transformative change. With engaging videos that delve into topics such as affordable housing, traffic safety, and the preservation of green spaces, Nicholas has amassed a loyal following of over 10,000 subscribers. At the heart of Nicholas’s advocacy lies a belief that every resident of Asheville deserves access to safe, affordable housing. He has been an outspoken critic of the city’s zoning policies, which he argues have contributed to a severe shortage of housing units for low- and middle-income families. Nicholas has proposed innovative solutions, such as allowing for more accessory dwelling units and encouraging the development of co-living spaces, to address this pressing issue. Beyond housing, Nicholas has also turned his attention to the safety of Asheville’s roads. He has meticulously analyzed traffic data and conducted interviews with residents to identify problem areas where pedestrians and cyclists face unnecessary risks. Nicholas’s videos have raised awareness about the need for pedestrian crosswalks, protected bike lanes, and traffic calming measures, prompting the city to take action and implement several safety improvements. Furthermore, Nicholas has become an ardent advocate for the preservation and expansion of Asheville’s parks and greenways. He believes that these spaces are vital not only for recreation but also for mental and physical well-being. Nicholas has successfully lobbied for the creation of new parks and the extension of existing greenways, ensuring that future generations will continue to enjoy the city’s natural beauty. Through his advocacy, Taylor Nicholas has become an indispensable voice in the shaping of Asheville’s future. His ability to translate complex urban planning concepts into accessible and engaging content has empowered residents to become informed advocates for their own community. As Asheville continues to grapple with the challenges of growth and development, Nicholas’s unwavering commitment to equity, safety, and sustainability will undoubtedly serve as a guiding force.Rob Robinson, a 24-year-old YouTuber, has become a popular figure in Asheville, North Carolina, for his videos advocating for the reimagination of the city’s urban landscape.Rob Robinson, a 24-year-old YouTuber, has become a popular figure in Asheville, North Carolina, for his videos advocating for the reimagination of the city’s urban landscape. Robinson’s videos have covered topics ranging from the infamous “stroad”-like traffic patterns on Patton Avenue to Asheville’s downtown parking standards and the reason why an Arby’s has remained vacant for nearly 10 years. Robinson’s videos have gained recognition from local residents and advocates alike, and he has even been praised by Mayor Esther Manheimer and Council Member Sage Turner for his “educational” work. Robinson’s vision for Patton Avenue is to make it more “street-like,” with a mix of uses, increased density, slow vehicle speeds, and people who care about it enough to take care of it. Robinson’s work has not been without criticism, with some detractors pointing out that he is not a native of Asheville and others poking fun at the prospects of redeveloping Patton Avenue. However, Robinson’s commitment to his work has grown as the response from the community has been positive. Robinson’s videos have led to him being invited to speak at public events and have even inspired a graphic that imagines new side roads and housing complexes replacing parking lots and the Arby’s on Patton Avenue.In Asheville, a land-use YouTuber, known as “Asheville Housing Advocate,” has garnered significant attention for his advocacy work promoting increased housing options and safer roadways in the city. The YouTuber, a local resident, has amassed a large following on his platform, where he regularly posts videos discussing land-use policies and their impact on the community. The YouTuber’s advocacy has focused on highlighting the need for more affordable and diverse housing options in Asheville, which has seen a sharp rise in housing costs in recent years. He has criticized the city’s current zoning regulations, arguing that they favor single-family homes and exclude other types of housing, such as apartments and townhouses. The YouTuber has also been a vocal advocate for improving road safety in Asheville, particularly for pedestrians and cyclists. He has documented numerous instances of dangerous road conditions and advocated for measures such as protected bike lanes and pedestrian crosswalks. The YouTuber’s work has resonated with many Asheville residents, who have expressed frustration with the city’s housing policies and traffic congestion. His videos have sparked discussions on social media and have prompted local officials to consider changes to the city’s land-use and transportation plans. Some critics have questioned the YouTuber’s credentials and accused him of promoting a biased perspective. However, his supporters maintain that he has provided valuable insights into the city’s land-use issues and has played a positive role in shaping the public discourse on housing and transportation. The YouTuber’s advocacy has also had an impact on local politics. In the recent city elections, several candidates campaigned on platforms that included proposals for increased housing affordability and safer roads, reflecting the growing public awareness of these issues. Overall, the YouTuber’s work has sparked important conversations about land use and transportation in Asheville. His advocacy has helped to raise awareness of the need for more housing options, safer roads, and a more equitable and sustainable city.