Share Your Voice at Asheville Parks & Recreation’s Park Bench Chats

parks and recreation director D. Tyrell McGirt wearing orange shirt and sunglasses

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.

“Our city’s parks and recreation system thrives when it truly reflects the voices of our community,” expressed McGirt. “A cornerstone of our approach to making Asheville the center for parks and recreation innovation in North Carolina is a collaborative approach in which we move beyond periodic town halls and surveys and into a barrier-free culture where everyone feels comfortable filling the funnel of ideas that help keep our community happy, safe, and healthy through the unparalleled power of parks and recreation.”

Upcoming Dates & How to Connectchildren planting flowers in community garden

Secure your 20-minute slot up to 45 days before each event via this link: https://calendar.app.google/oWihJ7fDQsbJ6wai6. Walk-ins may be accommodated if time permits.

  • Tuesday, July 22, 2025 from 11am-2pm at Roger Farmer Park on 71 Deaverview Road
  • Wednesday, October 15, 2025 from 3-6pm at Jake Rusher Park on 160 Sycamore Drive
  • Tuesday, February 3, 2026 from 3-6pm at Weaver Park on 200 Murdock Avenue
  • Wednesday, May 13, 2026 from 10am-1pm at Haw Creek Park on 40 Avon Road

Unable to Attend in Person?

No problem! Community members are welcome to submit their ideas and feedback directly to dtmcgirt@ashevillenc.gov.