Asheville YWCA Pool Closed Until 2025 Amid 2-Year Financial Deficit

Asheville YWCA Pool Closed Until 2025 Amid 2-Year Financial Deficit

ASHEVILLE – Amid a two-year financial deficit, YWCA of Asheville is temporarily closing its roughly 50-year-old pool, which was one of the first places to racially integrate in Asheville.

Pool Maintenance and Closure

The YWCA pool will close June 28 to undergo maintenance on the concrete ceiling structure over the pool, which has been impacted by “significant humidity issues.”

They’ll also be resurfacing the pool deck and addressing issues with the air system to prevent future problems from humidity. The pool is expected to reopen in early 2025.

Historical Significance of the Pool

The pool at YWCA has a history of promoting racial equity around pool access, offering free and reduced swim lessons through swim equity scholarships.

Finances and Challenges

The YWCA is facing “significant financial challenges,” having operated in a deficit for the past two years, with a deficit amounting to $650,000 going into the next fiscal year.

Various factors contribute to the financial struggles, including shifts in funders, deferred maintenance, delays in employee retention credit, and inflation.

Cost-Cutting Measures

The YWCA has implemented cost-saving measures to avoid impacting staffing and programs, but potential layoffs may be necessary if the situation does not improve.

Strategic salary reductions for top roles have been put in place, and the organization may have to pause its smallest department if adequate funding is not secured.

Community Support and Funding

The YWCA is seeking new corporate sponsorships and considering naming rights for the pool to fund repairs and address financial challenges.

Community support, partnerships, and assistance from funders, county, and city government are crucial to help the YWCA through this financial crisis.