Asheville City Council Adopts the ‘Recreate Asheville’ Plan

City Council approves a 10-year strategy to upgrade parks and recreational facilities

In a decisive move aimed at invigorating the city’s parks and recreational facilities, the Asheville City Council voted in favor of adopting the ambitious Recreate Asheville plan mapped out by Asheville Parks and Recreation. This far-sighted plan spanning the next decade sets the direction and focus for upgrading and expanding Asheville’s park system. The implementation of the first phase of the plan would be contingent on a November referendum where city residents can vote for an $80 million general obligation bond issuance, of which $20 million would be earmarked for parks and recreation.

Details of the ‘Recreate Asheville’ Plan

The Recreate Asheville Plan envisages a comprehensive upgrade of parks and recreational facilities across the city. Phase one, which could span up to four years, includes noteworthy projects such as:

• Major redevelopment of Linwood Crump Shiloh and Tempie Avery Montford Community Centers
• Upgrades for Burton Street, Murray Hill, Walton Street, Recreation, Malvern Hills, and Roger Farmer parks
• The establishment of a new park on Sweeten Creek Road
• A new pickleball complex and aquatic facility
• Significant maintenance works across the Asheville Parks and Recreation system

Of the proposed $20 million investment budget for the first phase, about $9 million would be allocated to revamping community center projects. The rest of the funds, amounting to $11 million, would be used for implementing other components of the plan.

Anticipated Impact and Future Phases

The adoption of the Recreate Asheville plan signifies Asheville’s commitment to elevating the standards of its public spaces and enhancing community enjoyment. It underscores the city’s vision of creating accessible, inclusive, and diverse outdoor spaces that contribute to the collective wellness of its residents.

Subsequent phases under this plan would continue to inject new life into Asheville through more park upgrades, new park development, and the creation of special use facilities. As the plan unfolds, residents can look forward to experiencing an enriched blend of natural beauty, leisure, sports, and community activities right in their neighborhoods.

Next Steps

The successful implementation of the approved Recreate Asheville plan is now pinned on the November referendum where Ashevillians can vote for the proposed $80 million bond issuance. With this financial backing, the city can kick-start the much-anticipated revitalization of Asheville’s parks and recreation system, offering a fresh lease of life to its public spaces and facilities.

Seizing the Opportunity

As November rolls around, the city’s residents will have the opportunity to guide Asheville’s future. With their votes, they can give the green light to a project that promises to invigorate city life, bringing about enhanced recreational facilities and creating fresh opportunities for community interaction and outdoor wellness.