Asheville City Council Adopts the Recreate Asheville Plan

With the potential for $20 million in bond funding on the horizon, the Asheville City Council has adopted the Recreate Asheville plan, set to steer the priorities of Asheville Parks and Recreation over the next decade. This notable development occurred during the Council’s meeting held Tuesday, where officials expressed enthusiasm and positive anticipation over the city’s future leisure and outdoor activities infrastructure.

Understanding the Recreate Asheville Plan

The Recreate Asheville plan is a comprehensive framework that identifies the strategies, priorities, and projects for the Asheville Parks and Recreation department for the next 10 years. In essence, the plan is geared towards revamping and upgrading the existing parks, recreation centers, and facilities, with the introduction of some new additions as well.

The plan’s implementation now hinges on the city’s voters who, in November, will decide whether to approve an $80 million general obligation bond. If approved, a quarter of this funding – amounting to $20 million – will be directed towards the execution of the Recreate Asheville plan.

Unveiling Phase One

The first phase of the plan is projected to span between one and four years. Major highlights of this initial phase include major redevelopment projects for the Linwood Crump Shiloh and Tempie Avery Montford community centers. Additionally, upgrades will be undertaken at the Burton Street, Murray Hill, Walton Street, Recreation, Malvern Hills, and Roger Farmer parks.

Also included in the first phase is the inception of a new park on Sweeten Creek Road alongside the establishment of a new pickleball complex and aquatic facility. Furthermore, substantial maintenance will be carried out across the Asheville Parks and Recreation system to ensure parks and facilities are in optimum condition.

Funding Breakdown

Out of the proposed $20 million allocated for the initial phase, $9 million will be assigned to the redevelopment of community centers. The remaining $11 million will be devoted to the other projects identified in the plan.

Looking Ahead

The Recreate Asheville plan offers residents an exciting glimpse into future developments and upgrades. The subsequent phases of the project outline admirable mid- and long-term goals aiming for a vibrant and refreshing facelift of Asheville’s urban landscape. Asheville’s park system is set to witness continued enhancements with more new parks, park upgrades, and special facilities.

In conclusion, the adoption of the Recreate Asheville plan by the City Council represents a promising start towards a vibrant and revitalizing transformation of Asheville’s parks and recreational facilities. This initiative ultimately aims to promote an active community lifestyle with enhanced access to outdoor recreational spaces and improved facilities.