Park District: South
Census Tract: 22.01/22.02
Neighborhood: Royal Pines Village
Background
The Royal Pines neighborhood got its start as a large residential subdivision in 1925. Named for the white pine trees growing in the area, the development offered electric power, paved roads, a water and sewerage system, and recreational opportunities for its residents. Like most of the area and nation, the Great Depression slowed growth, but the population boom following World War II helped realize Royal Pines’ potential.
Jake Rusher owned the Royal Pines Club, Recreation Center, Pool, and Skateboard Park for over five decades. The campus also included a dance hall and casino, becoming a popular hangout for college and high school students from the 1940s through the 1980s. During its heyday, The Supremes, the Isley Brothers, The Drifters, Bo Diddley, and other stars performed at the center.
In 1999, Rusher donated the land to the City of Asheville. Asheville Parks & Recreation replaced the pool and casino building with a playground, natural play spaces, benches, and a basketball court. Following Asheville voters’ 2016 approval of $17 million in bond funding to improve, enhance, and develop parks and facilities, a series of community meetings, focus groups, and other feedback opportunities were offered throughout 2017-2019.
On February 11, 2020, Asheville City Council unanimously authorized the City Manager to move forward with a $975,274 construction contract with Carolina Specialties Construction for improvements to Jake Rusher Park. Improvements include a pavilion and restroom building, additional parking, accessible sidewalks, sport courts, new landscaping, improved lighting, and relocation of utilities. Construction on the recreational features was completed in 2021.
The interactive playable art feature is scheduled for fabrication in 2023 with installation to follow and will be an addition to the existing playground.
Project Timeline
2017
- April 5, 17, and 30: Community meetings
- Summer-Fall: Planning and conceptual drawings
2018
- May 19 and 24: Community meetings
- June: Online feedback
- Summer-Fall: Planning and conceptual drawings
2019
- December 19: Bids advertised for qualified builders
2020
- February 11: City Council unanimously approves the scope of work and authorizes the City Manager to enter into a contract
- April: Construction begins
2021
- July 24: Ribbon cutting
- October 7: Virtual meet and greet with Becky Borlan
2022
- Design, engineering, and development of interactive playable art feature
2023
- Winter: Site preparation, fabrication, and installation of playable art feature
Supporting Documents
Parks and Recreation Master Plan
Spring of 2017 Community Meetings Flyer
Spring of 2018 Community Meetings Flyer
Contact Information
Parks & Recreation, parks@ashevillenc.gov, 828-259-5800
