City of Asheville: Assesses One Pool Safe for Summer Access Due to Helene

Asheville -- Press Release City of Asheville Government: While the city is off to a chilly start to the year, Asheville Parks & Recreation (APR) is urging locals to make a plan

for summer swimming and aquatic adventures. Following catastrophic Helene-related destruction to Recreation Park’s pool, the City of Asheville will only open the public pool at Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center this year. However, the pool will be open longer hours, and APR staff are actively seeking partnerships to provide pool access in other parts of the city.

 

“While the full extent of Helene’s damage is still coming into focus, we do know that Recreation Park’s pool suffered major structural damage and the park itself is inaccessible as the bridge and roads were destroyed,” according to D. Tyrell McGirt, APR Director. “As someone who began my career in the aquatics field, it breaks my heart that we are limited to one public pool within city limits this year. We are working to provide as many alternatives as possible, but wanted to share this information early so families and community members can make a plan for warm weather that is still months away.”

 

 

Opened in 2023, the modern outdoor pool at Grant Southside Center is centrally located and features a toddler play zone, lounge deck, picnic tables, restrooms, and changing rooms. 

Admission is $3 per day

 

For the 2025 season, regular pool hours are Monday-Friday from 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Saturday from 11 a.m.-7 p.m., and Sunday from 12-7 p.m., though hours may vary due to weather or special events
Expected dates of operation are May 24-September 1, 2025 (weekends only before June 7 and after August 17)

 

After hours pool parties are available by reservation through Swim Club Management Group

 

Where Else Can I Beat the Heat?
APR is actively coordinating with other organizations to provide public open swim times this summer. If your organization is interested in partnering, please contact D. Tyrell McGirt at dtmcgirt@ashevillenc.gov or 828-259-5808.

APR operates Asheville’s only free public splash pad, Splasheville in Pack Square Park. It is expected to open by mid-April, but the opening date is subject to weather conditions.
APR hosts multiple free Summer Splash Days and Foam Parties in the Park at parks throughout the summer with dates announced in May
Buncombe County Parks & Recreation operates five outdoor and one indoor pool (more info)

 

There are a number of membership and day pass pools in the area. Please contact individual locations for more info.Asheville Racquet Club (two locations)
YMCA of Western North Carolina (two locations with pools in Asheville)
Asheville Jewish Community Center
Country Club of Asheville
East Asheville Recreation Club
Odyssey School
The Omni Grove Park Inn Sports Complex