ASHEVILLE, N.C. (WLOS) — A business owner who had to move because of the I-26 Connector Project has found a new home for her business.
She says this is thanks to a collaboration with another local business.
“I’m comfortable in change, because change excites me,” said Veronica Carlson, the Owner of Asheville Kava X Coffee. “I’ve been out of operation for about a month and a half now.”
She says since the relocation notice, she’s had to adapt.
READ MORE: BUSINESS OWNER FACES APRIL 24 MOVE-OUT AS I-26 CONNECTOR PROJECT ADVANCES
“I can’t say I was devastated. It was like a punch, but a punch to action. It’s like, okay, time to shift,” said Carlson.
And her customers weren’t happy to see her go.
“It was just a shame that I discovered it right as they were tearing it down practically,” said Rory Killian.
AUG. 15, 2026 – Drinks at Space Cowboy Coffee at 1110 Patton Avenue in Asheville. The business also houses Asheville Kava X Coffee. (Photo credit: WLOS Staff)
North Carolina Department of Transportation estimated there would be about 80 relocations due to the I-26 Connector Project.
“The DOT covered the move,” said Carlson. “They provide up to $33,000 in benefits.”
Now she’s found a new home for her business at Space Cowboy Coffee at 1110 Patton Avenue in Asheville.
“I’m just very, very happy and excited to be able to carry that on in a new way, different canvas,” said Carlson.
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Starting Saturday evening, Carlson is selling coffee during Space Cowboy Coffee’s off-hours and the coffee shop is also selling her drinks and Kava.
“We all get to build each other up,” said Carlson.
Carlson has also brought in some help from one of her customers. Killian started working for Space Cowboy and Asheville Kava X Coffee this week.
“I’m really, really touched that she considered me. Because I do, she’s just a tremendous source of inspiration for me,” said Killian.
Carlson says, eventually, the plan is for the businesses to merge.
