SWANNANOA, N.C. (828newsNOW) — The United States Postal Service has signed a long-term lease for a property in Swannanoa that is expected to become the community’s new main post office, Buncombe County Commissioner Jennifer Horton announced Thursday.

In a social media post, Horton said USPS has entered into a lease agreement for the building and property located at 2230 U.S. 70 in Swannanoa.

According to Horton, the project is now in the design and construction phase. USPS is expected to provide a construction timeline once more details are finalized.

“This is an important step toward restoring reliable retail postal services for the Swannanoa community,” Horton wrote. “I know many residents have been waiting for answers, and I’m grateful to see forward movement.”

Residents commenting on Horton’s post identified the location as the former Family Dollar store along U.S. 70.

The announcement comes as residents and businesses in Swannanoa continue working to recover and rebuild following widespread damage from Tropical Storm Helene.

Horton said she plans to continue sharing updates on the project as more information becomes available.