Scaffolding and fencing to accompany Asheville City Hall belfry repair

  A project to repair the Asheville City Hall belfry roof begins this week. Workers will restore the original 1927 terracotta roof tiles and masonry. The belfry is the very top of the building – think pink tiles and chimes. Deliveries of scaffolding and fencing materials began Nov. 9. Fencing was installed around the perimeter of the building to [...]

ABYSA to share financial responsibility for JBL Soccer Complex maintenance, under new agreement

Contributed image   Work began about two weeks ago at John B. Lewis Soccer Complex to repair damages caused by multiple flooding events in 2018. And a resolution adopted by Asheville City Council during its March 26 meeting puts in place an agreement for shared financial responsibility for future maintenance at the facility.   The City’s new lease agreement [...]

Aloft hotel opening marks great public/private partnership

Beneath the bright and festive décor of the Aloft Hotel, which marked its grand opening Thursday, lies the City of Asheville’s most recent addition to its parking facilities. The 404-space parking garage is the fourth downtown deck operated by the City of Asheville and was built at considerable savings to the city thanks to a [...]

April 14 Asheville City Council meeting to be held following CDC, state and local guidelines  

  Top priority is to minimize the spread of COVID-19 while conducting City business   On April 14, Asheville City Council will hold a 3 p.m. budget work session and its regular 5 p.m. meeting. The agenda is posted at this link April 10. As the City of Asheville continues to work through the COVID-19 public [...]

ART bus service to resume at 8 a.m., City government offices to open at 10 a.m.

  Asheville City government offices and facilities will open on a delayed schedule, at 10 a.m. Friday, Feb. 21, due to the potential for black ice on our roads.  ART bus service will resume at 8 a.m. Friday. Asheville Parks & Recreation Fun Day Out programs will open at 10 a.m. Friday at Stephens Lee, Vance and Montford [...]

ART buses, City of Asheville offices on weather delay; trash pickup cancelled

UPDATE: Due to continued snowy road conditions, ART bus service has been delayed until noon. Once it begins routes may be detoured, depending on road conditions.    Due to inclement weather and snowy road conditions, particularly on secondary roads, Asheville Sanitation (trash, recycling, brush, and bulky collection) are cancelled for today. Sanitation will operate on its “closure schedule,” [...]

ART Service Alert

UPDATE 3:00PM Route S4 is now up and running. We will update as road conditions improve.   UPDATE 9:10AM Some ART routes are back in service. We will update you as City crews continue working on the roads. The following routes/locations will not be able to be accessed until conditions improve: 170 – No Haw Creek S5 – No River Ridge S4 not [...]

Asheville City Council approves Commonwealth Golf Partners as new operator of the Municipal Golf Course

On August 23, 2022, the Asheville City council voted unanimously to approve Commonwealth Golf Partners II – Asheville LLC (CGP) as the new operator of Asheville’s historic 1927 Donald Ross designed Municipal Golf Course.  CGP will assume operations of the course beginning October 1, 2022 replacing the current operator, Pope Golf LLC, whose contract expires [...]

Asheville City Council approves funds for an annual street resurfacing project

City Council, during their July 26 meeting, unanimously approved $659,654.00 plus a 15% contingency of $98,948.10 ($758,602.10 total) for the  Fiscal Year (FY) 22 in funds for the Asphalt Preservation Contract. Funding for this contract has already been budgeted in the General Capital Projects Fund as part of the Capital Improvement Program (CIP).  This is [...]

Asheville City offices to close for MLK Jr. Day, ART buses will run on a holiday schedule

Please note: Due to weather, Parks & Recreation has changed some of it’s Martin Luther King Jr. Day programming, as listed below.   Asheville City government offices will be closed Jan. 17 in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Here is a look at City services affected by this holiday. Trash and recycling Though [...]

Asheville City offices to close for MLK Jr. Day, ART buses will run on a holiday schedule

    Asheville City government offices will be closed Jan. 20 in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Here is a look at City services affected and a special event downtown that day.   Trash and recycling Though City offices will be closed, Sanitation Services will run on schedule. Residential trash and recycling will be collected as [...]

Asheville emergency communications tower to be replaced this fall

The City of Asheville is in the process of replacing one of our public safety communications towers on Beaucatcher Ridge at the former White Fawn Reservoir site. This site has been an excellent resource in support of radio communications for police, fire departments, and state highway patrol agencies in our region for more than 25 [...]

Asheville Fire Department hosts Hose Uncoupling Ceremony at Fire Station 4

The Asheville Fire Department hosted a Hose Uncoupling Ceremony (ribbon cutting) at Fire Sation #4 on May 18 to celebrate the renovations and opening of the station.  Previously, the Asheville Fire Department’s Fire Station #4 shared operational facilities with Skyland Fire & Rescue. Due to the need for both departments to expand,  AFD initiated a renovation [...]

Asheville Mayor Manheimer amends State of Emergency proclamation, limiting organized gatherings on City property to 100

  In concert with Buncombe County, on March 12, Asheville Mayor Esther Manheimer signed a State of Emergency proclamation for the City of Asheville, based on the public health emergency posed by COVID-19. As part of the City’s State of Emergency, organized gatherings of 250 or more persons were prohibited on City-owned property.  Shortly after the City’s State [...]

Asheville Parks & Recreation hosts Flapjacks & Feedback to share Walton Street Park updates

Southside residents and regular Walton Street Park visitors are invited to a free pancake breakfast to share thoughts on design preferences for the park’s facelift. Asheville Parks & Recreation (APR) team members will be on hand with surveys and information during Flapjacks & Feedback on Saturday, November 12, from 10:30 a.m. until [...]

Asheville Parks & Recreation offers free and low-cost summer fun throughout the city

“Like many of you, I look back fondly on fun memories made over the summers of my life meeting new friends at summer day camps, discovering new interests by exploring the green space and waterway at my local neighborhood park, and gaining professional experience working at my community center pool.” So begins the welcome letter [...]

Asheville Parks & Recreation warms up December with celebrations for kids, families, and older adults

As the magic of the holidays comes to the mountains, Asheville Parks & Recreation (APR) has plenty of fun, festive celebrations to make the season merry and bright for the young and young-at-heart during Holly Jolly Holidays from December 2-16. Space is limited, so advance registration is strongly recommended even if an event [...]

Asheville parks remain closed, Municipal Golf Course reopens, greenways and trails are open

Note: Originally published April 16, when the Asheville Municipal Golf Course was closed, this post has since been updated to reflect that the course has been reopened.   Being outside is good for everyone’s physical and emotional well-being, especially during these stressful times, but what is happening now in our public spaces is simply not safe.     In compliance [...]

Asheville Police Headquarters to be named after late lieutenant

At their June 11 meeting, City Council passed a resolution to name Asheville Police Headquarters in memory of former APD Lt. Walter Robertson. During his 28-year tenure at the Asheville Police Department, “Walt” Robertson became the first African American to reach the rank of Lieutenant. An Asheville native, he graduated from Lee Edwards High School and [...]

Asheville Police to close its buildings to public to promote COVID-19 social distancing measures 

  In an effort to ensure the highest safety for our police officers and Asheville Police Department (APD) personnel, as well as decrease the chances for the spread of COVID-19 within our community, all APD buildings, including the Municipal Building and all district resource centers, will close to the public effective immediately.    This action is aligned with [...]

Asheville pools and Splasheville closed for summer season

  The City of Asheville continues to monitor the most up-to-date information available from public health officials at the local, state and federal levels regarding COVID-19.  Based on the information provided to us, the City of Asheville Parks and Recreation Department has decided that it is in the best interest of our community for City of [...]

Asheville receives dusting of snow, City offices open

  While predicted snow moved in overnight, so far Asheville has only received a dusting and roads remain clear, with the exception of a few icy spots. City of Asheville facilities will open on the schedule we have been following under guidelines for the COVID pandemic.   City Streets crews were out monitoring and treating streets as needed [...]

Asheville Sanitation, ART bus schedules altered for Labor Day holiday

  City of Asheville government will be closed Sept. 7 for Labor Day. City facilities remain closed to the public at this time, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, though some parks have reopened.   During this public health emergency, City employees have continued their work, some in the field, such as in sanitation, water, transit, fire and police, [...]

Asheville Skatepark to close in March for major renovation

Following two years of discussions and planning, Asheville Parks & Recreation (APR) is investing $200,000 in major repairs and renovations to Asheville Skatepark. Beginning with replacement of stairs and sections of damaged fencing along Cherry Street last year, new enhancements and additions to the upper plaza and skate bowls [...]

Asheville Water Resources to begin maintenance on 5 million-gallon tank as part of proactive resource management

  A 5 million-gallon tank serves as a final stop before City of Asheville water is distributed through our pipes to homes, industry and businesses. It’s called a clearwell and, like other aspects of Asheville Water Resources facilities, it requires maintenance from time to time.   That maintenance will begin June 15 at the North Fork Water Production [...]

Aston Park tennis court to be named for Lewis Isaac

  A fixture on the Asheville tennis scene and former City employee will be recognized for his dedication to both.   At their Sept. 10 meeting, Asheville City Council voted to name Court 1 at Aston Park Tennis Center, 336 Hilliard Ave., in memory of the late Lewis Isaac.   Isaac was a longtime City of Asheville employee. Following his [...]

Biltmore Garage to temporarily close on April 11 through April 25, alternate parking arrangements available

Update: The temporary closure of Biltmore Avenue Garage has been changed to April 11, 2023, through April 25, 2023. The Biltmore Avenue Garage will remain open to monthly parking permit holders and hourly parkers until April 11, 2023. The dates were changed due to a shortage in critical materials needed by the contractor to proceed [...]

Bond project update: Playgrounds and sport courts under construction

There will be lots of happy children and ball players in Asheville in the coming months. The renovation of playgrounds and sport courts were part of the $17 million Parks general obligation bond referendum that was approved by our community in 2016.   Starting now, you will see work in progress in Malvern Hills Park, Murphy-Oakley [...]

Burton Street Community Center celebrates Hispanic heritage on October 21

Burton Street Community Center (134 Burton Street) is becoming known for fun events that explore Hispanic and Latino heritage. From the quirky Cinco de Star War to monthly Latin cuisine classes with Chef Martina Valdez, the center has successfully struck a balance between creating authentic, welcoming spaces for Hispanic and Latino families that are [...]

Butterflies return to WNC Nature Center on Saturday

The summer months will see the WNC Nature Center hosting more than 20 species of butterflies and moths for the center’s highly-anticipated Beauty of the Butterfly exhibit. The exhibit opens on Saturday, June 26 as part of the center’s Nectar Collector Day and will run through August 24. The popular exhibit allows WNC Nature Center visitors [...]

Celebrating Black Legacy Month – Asheville Parks & Recreation community centers remember local historic residents

Asheville Parks & Recreation manages a unique collection of more than 55 public parks, playgrounds, and open spaces throughout the city in a system that also includes full-complex recreation centers, swimming pools, Riverside Cemetery, sports fields and courts, and community centers that offer programs related to wellness, education, and culture for Ashevillians [...]

Celebrating Black Legacy Month – Asheville Parks & Recreation parks and playgrounds remember local historic residents

Asheville City Council has named February as Black Legacy Month to celebrate the significant contributions of Black and African American people in relation to the city’s past, present, and future. Last week, Asheville Parks & Recreation highlighted community centers named in honor of prominent Black community [...]

Celebrating Women’s History Month – Asheville Parks & Recreation facilities remember local historic women

Women’s History Month traces its beginnings to the first International Women’s Day in 1911. In 1978, schools in Sonoma, California celebrated Women’s History Week with events designed around March 8 (International Women’s Day). Following a conference about women’s history in 1979, President Jimmy Carter issued a presidential proclamation declaring the week of March 8 as [...]

City Council adopts Close the GAP Plan during October 25, 2022 meeting

Asheville City Council at the October 25, 2022 meeting, adopted the Close the GAP Plans.  There are 3 plans, done at the same time in order to strengthen the pedestrian network. The plans are the City of Asheville’s existing Greenway (G), ADA Transition (A), and Pedestrian (P) plans.  The planning process began [...]

City Council approves lease agreement for new south Asheville Police Resource Center location

    The Asheville Police Department (APD) will relocate its south resource center, under a lease agreement approved by City Council. At their Jan. 14, meeting Council approved a lease for the move of the Resource Center from the Skyland Fire and Rescue Building to a facility with more space for officers to do their job. The new [...]

City Hall energy efficient lighting retrofit means $15,000 annual savings

The recently completed replacement and retrofitting of nearly 1,000 lights and fixtures in Asheville City Hall will mean an annual savings to the city of $15,000, says Linda Fowler, Project Manager for the Office of Sustainability. The $125,000 installation, completed in mid-December, was funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 and was identified [...]

City of Asheville ‘flips the switch’ on solar panels at renovated Transit Station

On Oct. 1, the City of Asheville “flipped the switch” on the photovoltaic array, commonly known as solar panels, at the recently renovated ART Transit Station on Coxe Avenue. This is the first City facility to include renewable energy production in a renovation or new construction project. The City is under contract or is in [...]

City of Asheville and Buncombe County Community Reparations Commission meets November 7, 2022

The next regular meeting of the Community Reparations Commission is scheduled for November 7, 2022.  Please note that this is a change from the third Monday due to the Thanksgiving holiday.  The meeting will be held at Harrah’s Cherokee Center Banquet Hall at 87 Haywood Street at 6:00 p.m. The Commission meeting agenda is posted [...]

City of Asheville announces holiday closings

  ART bus service suspended on Dec. 25, to operate on new holiday schedule Jan. 1   Asheville City government offices will be closed Dec. 22, 25 and 26 and Jan. 1 in observance of the winter holiday break and New Year’s Day. The following is a roundup of services affected by holiday closures.   ART bus service City bus service will be suspended starting [...]

City of Asheville announces temporary Community Center hours to allow for staff training

The summer fun is about to begin!     To ensure the best program experience and safety is afforded to all community members, some of the City of Asheville Community Centers will experience a slight schedule change the week of June 6, 2022  to allow for staff training.    This is a planned training session for staff working our sold [...]

City of Asheville announces winter break holiday closings

ART bus suspended on Dec. 25     Asheville City government offices will be closed Dec. 24, 25 and 26 and Jan. 1 in observance of the winter holiday break and New Year’s Day. The following is a roundup of services affected by holiday closures.     ART bus service City bus service will be suspended starting at 6:30 p.m. Dec. 24 [...]

City of Asheville announces winter break holiday closings

  ART bus suspended on Dec. 25, runs on holiday schedule New Year’s Day   Asheville City government offices will be closed Dec. 24, 25 and 26 and Jan. 1 in observance of the winter holiday break and New Year’s Day. The following is a roundup of services affected by holiday closures.   ART bus service City bus service will be suspended starting [...]

City of Asheville announces winter holiday closings and ART bus holiday schedule

City of Asheville offices will be closed Dec. 23, 26 and 27 in observance of the winter holiday break. City offices will also be closed  Jan. 2.    The following City services will be affected by the holiday closures.   ART bus service Asheville Rides Transit (ART) holiday schedule  will be as follows: Service will be closed after 6:30 p.m. December [...]

City of Asheville completes aggregated solar project

Recently the City of Asheville “flipped the switch” on a photovoltaic array, commonly known as solar panels, at the Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center on Shiloh Road. This is the fifth City facility to include onsite renewable energy production. This completes the City’s portion of projects included in the joint initiative to install solar panels on City of Asheville, Buncombe County, Asheville City Schools, Buncombe County Schools and AB-Tech facilities. 

City of Asheville employees pitch in for Day of Caring

Carrier Park got a new coat of paint on Thursday, Sept. 2, as City of Asheville employees joined other organizations in the United Way Day of Caring. The event, coordinated by the United Way’s volunteer arm Hands On Asheville-Buncombe, encourages and highlights volunteerism in the community. Throughout the community on Thursday, groups and individuals participated in [...]

City of Asheville Fire Department is awarded a Class 1 fire rating

The NC Commissioner of Insurance and State Fire Marshal Mike Causey announced today that the Asheville Fire Department improved its fire rating from Class 2 to Class 1.   This improved fire suppression rating means not only is AFD better equipped to respond to emergencies, the new top rating should continue to significantly reduce insurance rates in [...]

City of Asheville Fleet Manager Jake Klodt recognized for excellence in the industry

The City of Asheville is fortunate to have an entire staff of dedicated, experienced team members, working hard each day to bring its best to the community and keep day to day operations of the city moving.  We know we have amazing individuals working for our community, but it’s nice when those efforts are recognized outside [...]

City of Asheville offices close for Memorial Day holiday; Sanitation and ART buses run on holiday schedule

The City of Asheville offices will be closed in observance of Memorial Day, May 30, a federally designated holiday that honors military personnel who have died in the performance of their military duties while serving in the United States Armed Forces.     Here is a roundup of other City services affected by this holiday, as well as [...]

City of Asheville offices close for Thanksgiving holiday

    ART bus service suspended on Thanksgiving Day as well   Asheville City government offices will be closed Thursday, Nov. 28, and Friday, Nov. 29, in observance of the Thanksgiving holiday. Here is a roundup of City service holiday schedules.   ART bus service ART bus service will be suspended Nov. 28, in observance of the Thanksgiving Day holiday. Thanksgiving is [...]

City of Asheville offices closed for Labor Day, ART buses to run on holiday schedule

Asheville City government offices will be closed Monday, Sept. 4, in observance of the Labor Day holiday. Though City offices will be closed, Sanitation Services will run on schedule. Trash and recycling will be collected as normal on Sept. 4.   ART bus service The City of Asheville ART service routes and facilities will operate on a reduced holiday [...]

City of Asheville offices closed for Veterans Day, ART buses to run on regular schedule

In observance of Veterans Day, the City of Asheville offices will be closed Friday, November 11, 2022. The City of Asheville and partner agencies will honor our local Veterans during a Veterans Day Ceremony on November 11. The in-person ceremony will take place Friday, November 11, 2022,  11 a.m. at Charles George VA Medical Center, 1100 Tunnel Road, Asheville.

City of Asheville offices closed July 3

Asheville City government offices will be closed Friday, July 3, in observance of the Independence Day holiday. All City of Asheville Parks & Recreation Department recreation centers will be closed. The following specialized recreation facilities will be open: City parks, the Asheville Golf Course, Food Lion Skate Park, Aston Park Tennis Center, Recreation Park Pool, Malvern [...]

City of Asheville offices to close April 2 for spring break

  Asheville City government offices will be closed April 2 for spring break. Here is a look at City services affected by this holiday.   ART bus service The City of Asheville ART service routes and facilities will operate on a reduced holiday schedule, which is the same as the Sunday schedule. For more route information or service alerts, [...]

City of Asheville offices to close for Juneteenth Observance – Monday, June 20, 2022

On June 20, 2022  Asheville City offices will be closed in observance of Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day. Juneteenth, officially observed each year on June 19,  marks the day in 1865 when enslaved African-Americans in Galveston, Texas, were told they were free, marking the end of slavery in the United States. Congress [...]

City of Asheville offices to close for Labor Day holiday

Asheville city government offices will be closed Monday, Sept. 7, in observance of the Labor Day holiday. All City of Asheville Parks and Recreation Department recreation centers will be closed. The following specialized recreation facilities will be open: city parks, the Riverside Cemetery, Asheville Golf Course, Food Lion Skate Park, Aston Park Tennis Center, Recreation Park [...]

City of Asheville offices to close for Thanksgiving holiday; Sanitation, bus service alter schedules

  City of Asheville offices will be closed Nov. 25-26 in observance of the Thanksgiving holiday. The following City services will be affected as well.   ART bus service ART service will not run on Thanksgiving Day. For more information, including routes and schedules, please visit the ART Transit station at 49 Coxe Ave., download the

City of Asheville offices to close Friday, March 25

City of Asheville government offices will be closed Friday, March 25, as part of spring break. City of Asheville Parks and Recreation Department recreation centers will be closed except for the Montford Recreation Center, which will be open for Fun Day Out. The following recreation facilities will be open: City parks, the Riverside Cemetery, Asheville Golf [...]

City of Asheville Parks and Recreation releases its Winter-Spring program guide for 2023

Asheville Parks and Rec's new winter-spring program guide is filled with registration dates, information, and listings for hundreds of fitness and active living offerings, sports and clubs, arts and culture programs, out-of-school time activities, outdoor recreation, special events, parks and facilities’ hours of operation, and more.

City of Asheville provides update on recent water outages

UPDATE (01/04 at 12 p.m.)   Boil Water Advisory lifted for western Buncombe County water service areas – ending BWA for all City of Asheville water customers   The City of Asheville is pleased to announce water has been restored in the western Buncombe County service area and the Boil Water Advisory for this area will be lifted at [...]

City of Asheville shares data from new solar installation at Fire Station 10

On September 30, the City of Asheville “flipped the switch” on the photovoltaic array, commonly known as solar panels, at Fire Station 10 on Old Haywood Road. This is the second City facility to include renewable energy production, the first being the Transit Station on Coxe Avenue. This is also part of [...]

City of Asheville to open process for Civic Center naming rights

  ASHEVILLE — The City of Asheville is seeking interested parties for licensing agreements for the naming rights of the Civic Center, with the current naming rights licensed to U.S. Cellular Inc. as the U.S. Cellular Center. Staff’s goal is “to contract a licensing agreement with a notable company or individual that is culturally and socially [...]

City of Asheville to share updates on Memorial Stadium and Mountainside Park at community events

Representatives from the City of Asheville’s Parks & Recreation and Capital Projects departments will present updates on the Phase II improvements to Memorial Stadium and Mountainside Park at upcoming community events. Community members can view project renderings and discuss planned improvements with staff members. As defined by City Council during its March [...]

City offices to close for Thanksgiving holiday; Asheville Sanitation collection, ART bus service alter schedules

    City of Asheville offices will be closed Nov. 26-27 in observance of the Thanksgiving holiday. The following City services will be affected as well.   ART bus service ART service will not run on Thanksgiving Day. For more information, including routes and schedules, please visit the ART Transit station at 49 Coxe Ave., download the

Community invited to come and view Haywood and Page Avenue design concepts

    The City of Asheville’s Haywood and Page Project team invites the community to participate in the next step of conceptual master planning for a pivotal City-owned site and it’s adjacent area in Downtown.     A presentation and work session is planned for 6 to 7:30 p.m. Feb. 17 at the Center for Craft, 67 Broadway St., downtown [...]

Community invited to groundbreaking for community center expansion on April 28

Asheville Parks & Recreation invites community members to celebrate the expansion of Dr. Wesley Grant, Sr., Southside Community Center (285 Livingston Street) during a groundbreaking ceremony on Thursday, April 28. Brief remarks from Mayor Esther Manheimer, Parks & Recreation Director D. Tyrell McGirt, and a student from the after school program begin promptly at [...]

COVID-19: A message from Asheville City Manager Debra Campbell

    The City of Asheville is modifying its operations until further notice to protect our residents and minimize the spread of COVID-19 in our community. Asheville City Hall and other municipal buildings will be closed to the public, starting March 17. Some City employees will telecommute to minimize person-to-person contact. It is important to note that all essential [...]

Dual lines added at public outdoor racquet sports courts, shared use schedule for pickleball and tennis begins March 13

Asheville Parks & Recreation (APR) previously announced all outdoor hard surface public tennis courts maintained by the City of Asheville would become dual-lined, converting them to shared use courts to support local growth of pickleball and tennis. This decision followed months of meetings between local players of both sports. Court conversions have [...]

Dual lines to be added at all public outdoor racquet sports courts as short-term solution to support local growth of pickleball and tennis

Asheville Parks & Recreation (APR) today announced all outdoor hard surface public tennis courts maintained by the City of Asheville will become dual-lined, converting them to shared use courts to support local growth of pickleball and tennis. This plan preserves APR’s inventory of 11 public tennis courts and increases public pickleball courts [...]

Explore, connect, and discover with Asheville Parks & Recreation this fall

Asheville Parks & Recreation (APR), like the community it serves, is constantly changing and evolving. In alignment with Asheville City Council’s 2036 Vision and current strategic priorities, the department is focused on Improving Core Core Services, Neighborhood Resilience, and Improving Public Safety. APR’s fall program guide reflects the department’s [...]

Fall for Asheville Parks & Recreation – and receive a gift!

Out-of-towners like to speculate when fall foliage will peak in Asheville to plan a visit. For locals, the beauty of living in the Blue Ridge Mountains means the chance to enjoy a regional show of bright yellow, burnt orange, and vibrant purple hues that can last six to eight weeks. That span is shorter in [...]

Festival of Frights brings kooky fun and spooky chills October 21-31

Asheville Parks & Recreation (APR) brings ghoulish greetings with its annual Festival of Frights starting on October 21. The series of events includes a toddler costume party, nighttime skating, creepy climbing, and trips through a haunted castle, a greenhouse of horror, and a trail of treats.   While Ashevillians can stop in for a spell at [...]

Green features earn recreation center LEED Platinum certification

The City of Asheville is pleased to announce that the Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Center at 285 Livingston Street has achieved Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Platinum certification. The designation is the highest level of certification awarded by the U.S. Green Building Council in its recognition of building [...]

Groundhog Day at the WNC Nature Center

The word everyone was waiting for came out of the WNC Nature Center on Wednesday afternoon, as Asheville Mayor Terry Bellamy and Nibbles the Groundhog had a Groundhog’s Day conference to predict the coming of Spring. The media event fell on the same day as the nationally-followed prediction by Punxsutawney Phil, but as Education naturalist Eli [...]

Harrah’s Cherokee Center Asheville opens as a shelter during public health emergency

  In a coordinated effort, the City of Asheville, Buncombe County, Homeward Bound and numerous community partners organized a resource for individuals without homes at Harrah’s Cherokee Center Asheville.    The coronavirus outbreak represents a significant health risk for people experiencing homelessness. People living unsheltered are also far more likely to have chronic health conditions, one of the [...]

July is Parks & Recreation Month – Looking at the Asset Management Team

Asheville Parks & Recreation has been the trusted steward of the city’s parks, community centers, playground, sports courts and fields, pools, and more for nearly 70 years. There’s no better way to celebrate Parks & Recreation Month than by highlighting the professionals who faithfully serve the community all year [...]

July is Parks and Recreation Month – Looking at the Planning & Development Division

Asheville Parks & Recreation has been the trusted steward of the city’s parks, community centers, playground, sports courts and fields, pools, and more for nearly 70 years. There’s no better way to celebrate Parks & Recreation Month than by highlighting the professionals who faithfully serve the community all year to  build a [...]

Malvern Thrills brings free water fun days to Malvern Hills Park this summer

Following the news that Malvern Hills Pool will not open following safety concerns with its drainage and suction system, Asheville Parks & Recreation has planned a series of free water-based programming to take place throughout the summer titled Malvern Thrills. The department’s Rec n Roll mobile recreation van will roll [...]

Masks to be required in all City of Asheville buildings

  Because of the rising number of COVID-19 cases in our community, on Aug. 9 Buncombe County began requiring masks in all County buildings regardless of vaccination status.  The City of Asheville has followed the public health guidance from the Buncombe County Health Department throughout this pandemic and we will continue to do so.  Beginning Aug. [...]

Mayor Esther Manheimer proclaims July as Parks and Recreation Month

Parks are at the center of so many experiences, memories, and milestones – moments that park and recreation professionals make happen. The U.S. House of Representatives has designated July as Park and Recreation Month, emphasizing the outsized role parks play in regards to social equity, personal wellness, and community resiliency. At Asheville City Council’s most [...]

MLK mural on display at Senior Opportunity Community Center

The Senior Opportunity Community Center has unveiled a unique mural of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., created by volunteers and staff. The art project was part of Asheville Park & Recreation’s Black Legacy Month programming in February. Combining paper craft and painting, the colorful and large panel conveys Dr. King’s hope for equality, justice, and a better tomorrow.

No-smoking ordinance prohibits smoking on city property starting July 1

Beginning July 1, a revision to City of Asheville’s no smoking ordinance prohibits smoking on all city owned and occupied property. The new language applies to all City of Asheville parks, greenways and the grounds of city municipal facilities. The move is intended to provide a healthier environment for City of Asheville employees and the general [...]

North Fork Water Treatment Plant and Dam once again receives national attention

Already the recipient of a national award for the Spillway and Embankment improvement project, the facility this week hosted visitors from the Environmental Protection Agency and the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality. This was the first visit for EPA Asst. Administrator Radhika Fox, who said “It’s stunning,  the way that Asheville is really [...]

Parking changes coming for Mountainside Park

  The grass parking area at Mountainside Park will be closed to the public during the 2019 Asheville Tourists baseball season.   In response to concerns from the Edgehill and Hunt Hill neighborhoods, these changes in parking will help alleviate traffic impacts during home games. The grass area will be designated parking for Tourists staff and volunteers only, [...]

Participation from cycling community continues to help improve Asheville’s bike access

  The City of Asheville’s Comprehensive Bicycle Plan was adopted by Asheville City Council in 2008 after extensive involvement by the city’s bicycle community. But the input and participation from those active groups and other community organizations continues to be critical to making Asheville more and more bicycle friendly. “The cycling community really is our eyes [...]

Partnership helps Asheville Parks & Recreation expand options for mountain bikers

Asheville Parks & Recreation has been the trusted steward of the city’s unique portfolio of parkland and natural spaces since it was established in 1956. The department currently oversees the programming, safety, and usage of parks and facilities covering over 900 acres of land and water. While routine maintenance and replacement of [...]

Plaque honoring African American brick artisan to be dedicated at Asheville’s Municipal Building

James Vester Miller     Born a slave, an Asheville man went on to leave his fingerprints on some of Asheville’s most prominent buildings. At 4 p.m. July 27, a plaque commemorating the contributions of famed African American brick artisan James Vester Miller will be dedicated in front of Asheville’s Municipal Building, 100 Court Plaza. Mayor Esther Manheimer will [...]

Recreation Park Pool reopens, Malvern Hills Pool to remain closed this year

Asheville Parks & Recreation has important information to share regarding the community’s two public swimming pools. Recreation Park Pool (65 Gashes Creek Rd.) reopened on Friday, June 17 after closing for a week following the discovery of broken glass in the water. Malvern Hills Pool (75 Rumbough Pl.) will not open this [...]

Senior Opportunity Center renamed Grove Street Community Center

After nearly 50 years of being known as Senior Opportunity Center, the community center on 36 Grove St. in downtown Asheville has a new name. During its September 13 meeting, Asheville City Council approved Asheville Parks & Recreation’s (APR) request to rename the building to Grove Street Community Center. While the community center [...]

Solar energy systems to be installed on City of Asheville facilities as part of joint City-County renewable energy initiative

  On July 28, 2020, Asheville City Council approved the construction of onsite solar systems at five (5) City facilities. The five Asheville City sites are Wall Street Parking Deck, Burton Street Community Center, Shiloh Recreation Center, Fire Station 10 and Fire Station 11.    Collectively, this project will install a combined total of 259 kW of solar [...]

Splasheville scheduled to open Saturday, Pritchard Park closes next week for repairs, and other Asheville Parks & Recreation updates

Asheville Parks & Recreation has completed repairs and enhancements to Splasheville in Pack Square Park and plans to open the popular splash pad on Saturday, June 4. At the same time, the department announces a planned closure of Pritchard Park for repair to its iconic brickwork. Updates on additional [...]

Splasheville to undergo renovation

  The City of Asheville Parks & Recreation Department announces that Splasheville, the very popular interactive splashpad located in Pack Square Park, is getting an overhaul.  Work begins this week to replace the plumbing, wiring, control system and repair or replace the surface tiles and supporting gridwork.  Weather permitting, work is estimated to take approximately 10 [...]

Stephens-Lee Community Center announces closures and relocations for October 25-30

As Stephens-Lee Community Center prepares to become the Haunted Castle on the Hill for Festival of Frights, some classes have been cancelled or relocated.    Purchase your tickets for Haunted Castle on the Hill to experience one of the area’s longest-running haunted houses.                         [...]

U.S. Cellular Center releases parking information and security protocols for Buncombe County school graduations, including free parking for graduates

    Three Buncombe County high schools will hold graduation this weekend at the U.S. Cellular Center.   AC Reynolds, TC Roberson and North Buncombe graduating seniors will all walk across the stage to receive their diplomas at the U.S. Cellular Center.   The City of Asheville is proud to host this important civic event each June.  Changes in both security [...]

Volunteers repaint Stephens-Lee gym in recognition of MLK weekend

44 volunteers showed up at the Stephens-Lee Community Center on Saturday, January 15, to give the center’s gymnasium a new coat of paint in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. day. The service project, organized by the City of Asheville’s Volunteer Program, saw participants from the community as well as the city’s Parks Maintenance division, [...]

Wellness Wednesday – Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in truly green fashion

Nature has a huge impact on health and wellness. Multiple studies point to cortisol, stress, and anxiety levels decreasing in a calm, green environment. If you’re looking for an alternative to a party highlighted by brews on St. Patrick’s Day, check out this volunteer opportunity from Asheville Parks & Recreation. Community members are [...]

West Walnut St. and Rankin Ave. Garage Entrance – Closure on Monday, August 1, 2022

From approximately 7:00 a.m. until 10:00 p.m. on Monday, August 1, 2022 West Walnut Street will be fully closed between Haywood Street and Rankin Avenue. The West Walnut entrance to the Rankin Avenue Garage will be unavailable for use during this time period. The second Rankin Avenue Garage entrance (located at approximately 12 Rankin Avenue) will [...]

WNC Nature Center sets record attendance in 2019

  2019 was an exciting year for the WNC Nature Center!   In February, a ribbon cutting highlighted a new exhibit and the introduction of two new residents — red pandas named Leafa and Phoenix, who stole the hearts of everyone who attended the event on Valentine’s Day. They are the first species to be introduced as part [...]