Collaborative biochar pilot project completed in Asheville
During the month of May 2025, the City of Asheville conducted a successful biochar pilot project with the help of the US Forest Service (USFS) at the Southern Research Station.
New Remembrance Video captures the story of recovery for Asheville Parks after Hurricane Helene
In the video, you’ll hear directly from Al Kopf, Asheville Parks & Recreation Landscape Architect, who was on-site in the immediate aftermath of the storm. You’ll also see comparative footage illustrating our significant progress.
Asheville Parks & Recreation community centers and admin offices closed on July 18, parks and pool open
Asheville Parks & Recreation administration offices and community centers are closed for a staff retreat as part of Park and Recreation Professionals Day on Friday, July 18, 2025.
APR Innovators: Becca Familette
APR Innovators is an Asheville Parks & Recreation series highlighting team members going above and beyond to bring huge value to community members through knowledge, connections, and insight that come from a desire to create the best city possible through the power of high-quality recreation programs and safe parks that welcome everyone. When did [...]
Grant Southside Center pool reopens for Independence Day with enhanced safety measures
The City of Asheville is pleased to announce the reopening of the municipal pool at Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center for the Independence Day holiday on Friday, July 4, with modified hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. This swift reopening is the result of teamwork and dedication by City of Asheville staff [...]
Grant Southside Center pool temporarily closed due to safety concerns
The City of Asheville has announced the temporary closure of the municipal pool at Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center to ensure the immediate safety of all visitors and staff. This difficult decision was made after multiple incidents created significant safety concerns at the facility, including a recent incident involving a firearm. All [...]
City of Asheville announces temporary closure of east side of Weaver Park for improvements
The City of Asheville today announced the temporary closure of the east side of Weaver Park to facilitate significant improvements as part of an ongoing community investment project to enhance the popular north Asheville park. This closure is essential to ensure safety of the community and construction crews while work is underway to [...]
City of Asheville offices to close July 4 in observance of Independence Day
The staff at City of Asheville wishes you and yours a fun and safe Fourth of July. READ MORE about the SOUTH SLOPE CELEBRATION, traffic impacts and any potential impacts to City services you may use.
Mid-year momentum: 2025 infrastructure progress + future outlook
Asheville City Council unanimously approved the $256.36 million budget for the fiscal year 2026 at their regular meeting on June 10. The spending plan includes a robust Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) that focuses on storm recovery, parks, transportation, public safety and community infrastructure over the next five years. Projects are selected for funding in [...]
‘Build Together, Play Together’ with Asheville Parks & Recreation
The City of Asheville officially kicked off its annual celebration of Park and Recreation Month, as Council member Bo Hess, on behalf of Mayor Esther Manheimer, proclaimed July 2025 as Asheville Parks & Recreation Month in the city. The proclamation underscores the vital role of parks and recreation in fostering community health and unity, [...]
City of Asheville opens temporary dog park at Riverbend Park with support from HCA Healthcare’s Mission Health
As we move forward on our community's Helene recovery efforts, we have not forgotten our four legged friends.
‘Recreate Asheville’ Plan Honored with Prestigious NCASLA Merit Award for Analysis & Planning
The City of Asheville is proud to announce that Recreate Asheville: Shaping Our City’s Parks, Asheville Parks & Recreation (APR)’s 10-year comprehensive plan, received the Merit Award in Analysis & Planning from the North Carolina Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects (NCASLA). This significant recognition underscores the plan’s innovative approach [...]
Share Your Voice at Asheville Parks & Recreation’s Park Bench Chats
Looking to share your thoughts on Asheville’s parks, community centers, and recreation opportunities? Join Asheville Parks & Recreation (APR) Director D. Tyrell McGirt for casual “Park Bench Chats,” offering one-on-one or small group conversations.
Local MLK Association and City of Asheville announce 2025 Juneteenth Celebration June 16-20
2025 Juneteenth festivities offer movies, geneologu, fashion, music and more. Check out the line up and plan ahead
City of Asheville offices to close Thursday, June 19, in observance of the Juneteenth holiday: Know your service impacts
Our offices will be closed Thursday, June 19, but regular hours resume the next day. Water plant production staff and Emergency Services personnell operate on a normal schedule on any oberserved holiday.
City Announces Partial Reopening of French Broad Riverfront Greenways and Parks
For safety and enjoyment, visitors are urged to exercise caution and be mindful of surroundings while utilizing the reopened areas. Please adhere to any posted signage, barriers, or instructions from park staff regarding closed areas or potential hazards.
Asheville Parks & Recreation Has Summer Covered from Adventure to Zen
Enjoying sunny days is the Asheville way and Asheville Parks & Recreation (APR) has events, programs, and opportunities to welcome summer fun, create smiles, and bust boredom. Browse highlights below and use these links to find additional opportunities including free meetups and clubs, exercise and sports, arts and crafts, and more each week: