Parks & Recreation Advisory Board Meeting

Parks & Recreation Advisory Board Meeting Recap: September 8, 2026

The Buncombe County Parks & Recreation Advisory Board convened on September 8, 2026, to discuss ongoing projects, upcoming budget considerations, and review key master plans shaping the future of our parks and recreational spaces. The meeting provided a comprehensive update on several initiatives, highlighting both progress and challenges facing the department. Board members, staff, and community representatives were in attendance, contributing to a productive discussion focused on enhancing our county's parks system.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to updates and discussions surrounding several major projects. Progress on the Peterdown Greenway and Frenchbriar River Greenway was reviewed, with a target completion date of July 2029. Board member Wilson from Woodley emphasized the importance of celebrating milestones and increasing public awareness as these projects advance. The board also discussed plans for the Ledges Whitewater Park, aiming to open its wave feature in October and planning a celebratory event that could include the Recreation Board, Governor, and Commissioners. Addressing ongoing parking challenges at Ledges remains a priority.

Director Allison Deans’ report provided valuable insights into several key initiatives impacting the community. The board will soon begin budget discussions for the upcoming fiscal year (starting September 24th). A crucial update concerned the Deep Review Mountain Master Planning, which is currently headed to the Board of Commissioners next Tuesday. This plan includes detailed designs for the entryway and parking, running concurrently with the broader park master plan. A new 28,000 square foot indoor recreation facility is also planned for Buncombe County Sports Park (field 9), replacing a previous location impacted by flooding. Construction is expected to take approximately three years, offering expanded recreational opportunities and office space for county staff. Finally, Tyler Henry from the Helene Recovery Project presented on the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP), outlining efforts to acquire flood-prone properties, permanently removing development and potentially creating new parks or greenways – a vital step in rebuilding resilience following Hurricane Helene.

The board unanimously approved the minutes from their previous meeting and the agenda for this session, demonstrating a commitment to efficient governance. A key decision involved approving an updated interlocal agreement with Woodfin, which will see Woodfin take over maintenance and ownership of certain Greenway sections along Highway 251 and Beaverdam Creek. The board also briefly discussed a volunteer opportunity for the upcoming Special Olympics pickleball tournament on October 18th, encouraging participation from board members.

Community input was primarily delivered through Wilson from Woodley, who voiced concerns about the visibility and celebration of greenway progress. He advocated for increased public engagement to ensure residents are aware of the ongoing improvements and benefits.

Looking ahead, several action items were assigned to ensure progress continues. Board Chair Kevin Conrecote will organize options for an advisory board pontoon boat tour to further explore ongoing projects. Director Deans will share agendas from upcoming commissioner meetings with the advisory board, aiming to garner support for key initiatives. Most importantly, all board members are tasked with reviewing and providing feedback on the Recreation, Open Space, and Greenway & Trails Master Plans by the end of September. The status of unallocated funds from the Open Space Bond will be revisited at their next meeting, ensuring these resources are utilized effectively to benefit our community.

This meeting underscored the Parks & Recreation Advisory Board's dedication to long-term planning, recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene, and engaging the community in shaping a resilient and accessible parks system for all Buncombe County residents. The ongoing review of master plans, coupled with the focus on flood mitigation and new recreational facilities, demonstrates a commitment to building a stronger and more vibrant future for our parks and open spaces.