Investing in a Legacy
Opened in 1939, Walton Street Park holds a significant place in Asheville’s history, particularly for the Black community. The pool and bathhouse opened in 1949, serving as a vital recreational space during a time of government-mandated segregation. Following a 2016 assessment that revealed significant infrastructure issues, the City of Asheville, utilizing responses from a community survey process, approved the expansion of Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center to include a new outdoor pool.
With the historic significance of Walton Street Park recognized through its designation as a Local Historic Landmark and its inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places, the focus has shifted to adaptive reuse. This approach seeks to honor the park’s legacy while exploring vibrant, reimagined uses for the pool area that may activate the space year-round.
Balancing the historical significance of Walton Street Park and the neighborhood’s need for modern recreation opportunities and community spaces, Asheville Parks & Recreation recently completed a number of park enhancements include resurfacing the basketball court, replacing and modernizing the playground, converting the ballfield to an open area that can be used for multiple sports and activities, and installing a lighted paved walk and roll loop.
Asheville voters overwhelmingly approved a general obligation (GO) bond referendum in 2024 allocating up to $20 million for parks and recreation improvements throughout the city including improvements to Walton Street Park.
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