Asheville Parks Ready to Welcome Visitors Back After Storm Damage
Asheville, known for its beautiful landscapes and vibrant community, is gradually bouncing back from some challenging times brought on by a series of intense storms. After a three-week closure, many parks are now officially reopening their doors to the community, inviting everyone to come out and enjoy the great outdoors once again.
As of this morning, teams from Asheville Parks & Recreation (APR) have rolled up their sleeves and reopened 32 parks. These dedicated crews have been tirelessly working to clear debris and assess various amenities to ensure safety for all visitors. While it’s great news that many parks are open, city officials are reminding everyone to stay clear of areas that remain closed. It’s essential to stay safe, as there may be broken equipment, unexpected sinkholes, or even displaced wildlife lurking around.
A Friendly Reminder About Safety
For those looking forward to enjoying the parks, it’s important to remember that there are still some guidelines in place. All drinking fountains in the parks are currently out of service, with water turned off due to potential contamination. Residents are advised against drinking from any fountains until the city lifts boil water advisories.
“We understand how much these spaces mean to many people’s daily routines,” said APR Director D. Tyrell McGirt. “It’s about connecting with nature and each other, and we’re excited to have some parks open. But we urge folks to respect the closed areas so our team can continue their critical work.”
What to Expect at the Parks
So, which parks can you visit? The list is growing, and you can check the latest updates by visiting the city’s park services website. Some of the parks now open include:
- Albemarle Park
- Asheville Skatepark
- Dr. Wesley Grant Southside Community Center (outdoor spaces)
- Griffing Boulevard Rose Garden
- Pack Square Park
- Pritchard Park
- Weaver Park
It’s great to know that local families can once again enjoy them! However, some parks are still closed for the time being, particularly those that experienced severe damage, such as all riverfront parks and greenways. Riverside Cemetery is also closed to the public except for those attending funeral services due to safety concerns from fallen trees and other obstructions.
Looking Ahead
As the APR crews continue their recovery work, they do not yet have a timeline for reopening parks that took a bigger hit. But there’s hope! The department is committed to bringing more parks back online as soon as it is safe and feasible. And while previously scheduled activities and events are currently on hold, recreation experts are working behind the scenes to plan some exciting pop-up events – including a Halloween celebration that promises to be fun for everyone!
If you need any info about loved ones interred at Riverside Cemetery or have any questions about park services, you’re encouraged to reach out via email or phone for assistance. The parks team is here to help in any way they can.
The Essence of Asheville Parks & Recreation
Through it all, Asheville Parks & Recreation is steadfast in its mission to create welcoming and safe spaces for the community. Their commitment is evident in the robust array of parks, playgrounds, recreational programs, and community services designed for all ages. As they prioritize the health and happiness of residents, it’s evident that together, Asheville can triumph over these challenges with compassion and resilience.
For the latest updates on park openings and activities, keep an eye on the APR’s website and their social media channels. Let’s all gear up to explore, connect, and discover the beauty of Asheville once more!
