Asheville Reporter

Al Kopf, a long-time member of the Asheville Parks & Recreation (APR) team, has been making significant contributions to the community through his dedication and passion for park design and recreation programs. Kopf shared his journey with APR, mentioning, "I started working with the City of Asheville in 1985 in the Planning Department, but I was fortunate to have an opportunity to work in APR a couple of years later."

His inspiration to join the team stemmed from his childhood experiences, where he actively participated in town recreation programs and explored national parks with his family. This early exposure laid the foundation for his career path in landscape architecture and park design.

Reflecting on his accomplishments within the department, Kopf expressed pride in his role during Asheville's renaissance period, where he contributed to various city initiatives such as downtown revitalization, creation of major parks, and implementation of ADA improvements. He emphasized the importance of public enjoyment of these projects and cherished the collaborative work with staff and professionals.

Working for the department holds personal significance for Kopf, as it allows him to contribute to the community's wellbeing and engage in a diverse range of projects daily. His professional growth within APR has been continuous, with Kopf acknowledging the support and guidance he has received over the years.

Outside of work, Kopf finds joy in spending time with family, being in nature, enjoying music, reading, and exploring sacred landscapes of different faiths. These activities not only provide leisure but also offer insights into various world cultures and human aspirations.

As Al Kopf and other dedicated professionals continue to make a positive impact through Asheville Parks & Recreation, opportunities to join this innovative team can be found online.