Parks have always been important gathering places for members of our community. They give people of all ages an area for outdoor recreation and healthy activity, and a venue to take in the fresh mountain air. In November 2016 the community voted yes to invest $17 million dollars in general obligation bonds to support major improvements to parks and recreation facilities throughout the city. This includes acquiring land for parks as well as improving outdoor courts, playgrounds and lighting at ball fields.
Voting yes was just the beginning. We now embark on an exciting journey of community investment!
As a part of the Parks & Recreation bond package, $825,000 has been allocated to provide upgrades and improvements to Jake Rusher Park. Located in Arden between Hendersonville Road and Sweeten Creek Road, this park services the South Asheville community and serves as a gateway to the Royal Pines neighborhood.
The proposed redevelopment includes renovations to the playground, increased parking around the park, improved landscaping and the potential addition of a splashpad, basketball and volleyball court, picnic shelter or open playing fields.
And although we have some great ideas for improving the park, we know that getting input from park users will make the park successful. City staff will incorporate opportunities for your thoughts and feedback every step of the way. In this initial planning phase, City staff will seek input on community preference for the general park concept. Please join us at one of the following input opportunities:
- Wednesday, April 5 from 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the Skyland/South Buncombe Library (260 Overlook Road, Asheville) http://bit.ly/2n5S6Z3
- Monday, April 17 from 6 – 7 p.m. at the Skyland Fire Department (9 Miller Road South, Skyland) http://bit.ly/2mQc2gt
- Sunday, April 30 from 2 – 4 p.m. at Jake Rusher Park (132 Peachtree Street, Arden) http://bit.ly/2mQ9nU6
Meet us at the park April 30
The last of these three public input meetings will happen at Jake Rusher Park itself, 132 Peachtree Street, Arden. What a better place to envision the future?
Asheville Parks & Recreation staff will have planned activities for children, including bubble play and games. That way staff will occupy the kids to allow parents to give their input.
Staff will provide three concept drawings for park improvements and welcome people to offer their feedback.
In case of rain, the meeting will move to the Skyland Fire Department, 9 Miller Road, Arden.
Online resources
Can’t make any of these meetings? Share your input online through Open City Hall Asheville. This survey will be open through May 14.
For more information on the Jake Rusher Park Improvement Project please visit our project page.
To learn more about the general obligation bonds, visit the City’s bond referendum information webpage with frequently asked questions, a timeline, impact on taxes and more.