Erica Waltemade recently started her role as Deputy Director of the newly formed Asheville Downtown Improvement District, where she oversees operations of the Clean & Safe team and leads special projects in placemaking and public-realm enhancements. Based in Asheville, NC, she brings over a decade of expertise in art, design, and community engagement.
Prior to this role, Erica honed her skills in San Francisco’s Lower Polk and SOMA West Community Benefit Districts, managing public art installations, lighting design, landscaping, events, and neighborhood engagement workshops. Her interdisciplinary background—spanning art, marketing, and urban design—enriches her placemaking approach and fuels her passion for creating vibrant, inclusive public spaces. Erica holds BA and MA degrees in Art and Art History.