Asheville Reporter

Asheville Parks & Recreation (APR) has officially opened a new playground in Carrier Park, designed to spark imaginations and create lasting memories for children, families, and community members. The previous wooden playground, which opened in 2001, required frequent repairs to maintain safety.

The new playground features whimsical slides, challenging climbing structures, swings, and play areas designed for discovery and healthy fun. It incorporates durable recycled plastic lumber that mimics wood but eliminates the risk of splinters and injuries.

“With volleyball, basketball, lawn bowling, skating, biking, nature areas, French Broad River Greenway, and so much more, Carrier Park is one of the most visited and treasured parks in Asheville,” said APR Director D. Tyrell McGirt. “We kept that in mind as we designed the new playground in the same style with updated accessibility and safety. Mindful that shade is in high demand on sunny days, we preserved mature, leafy trees throughout the play area.”

This new addition marks APR’s ninth complete playground replacement since 2019. Playgrounds at Weaver Park and Burton Street Community Center are scheduled for completion next year.

Carrier Park's development began in 1998 when environmental nonprofit RiverLink purchased New Asheville Motor Speedway with plans to create a park with the City of Asheville. Volunteers helped build the first phase of the park in 2001. The second phase was dedicated in 2006.

Carrier Park is located on 220 Amboy Road within the velodrome.

Asheville Parks & Recreation manages over 65 public parks and open spaces throughout the city. The department offers various wellness-, education-, and culture-related programs for residents of all ages.

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