RiverLink founder and long-time executive director Karen Cragnolin passes away

ASHEVILLE, N.C. (WLOS) — Asheville is mourning the loss of a beloved community member.

RiverLink founder Karen Cragnolin has died.

ASHEVILLE'S NEWEST RIVERFRONT RECREATION AREA UNVEILED

She served as the nonprofit organization's executive director for 30 years.

Her mission to renovate dilapidated buildings in what's now the River Arts District was met with skepticism at first, but the area soon became home to dozens of artist studios and other businesses.

“I met Karen nearly ten years ago while working here in Asheville for EPA,” said RiverLink Board Chair, Anne Keller, in a press release. “Our hearts are heavy at this news. She was an amazing person who changed the trajectory of riverside development in Asheville and championed our great, ancient river—for the benefit of the entire community. RiverLink’s Board and staff look forward to continuing her work to improve our river and impact the lives of people who live in the French Broad watershed.”

FRENCH BROAD RIVER ADVOCATE KAREN CRAGNOLIN STEPS DOWN, LEAVES LEGACY

She stepped down as head of RiverLink in 2016 and had battled health problems in recent years.

A park along the French Broad River, off Amboy Road, will be named in her honor.