Asheville Reporter

Nestled in the heart of Asheville, the Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center stands as a symbol of resilience and community spirit. The center's roots trace back to the historic Livingston Street School, which played a crucial role during segregation when Southside was a hub for Black life in Asheville.

The Livingston Street School began in 1905 and moved to its own building in 1920. It was an important educational institution until it closed in 1970 following school integration. The building then became offices for Community Action Opportunities as urban renewal transformed the neighborhood, leading to significant changes and losses, including over 1,100 homes and numerous businesses.

In 1976, the former school underwent renovation to become the Livingston Street Community Center with facilities funded by the Model Cities program. It was later renamed W.C. Reid Memorial Recreation Center in honor of its late director. The center served as a community focal point with various activities and programs.

By 2011, plans were set for a new community center at Livingston Street Park due to practical considerations regarding the old building's condition. This led to the creation of Grant Southside Center, named after Dr. Wesley Grant Sr., a prominent local leader known for his contributions during civil rights movements.

The new center opened its first phase in 2011 with LEED-certified features and was only the second purpose-built facility by Asheville Parks & Recreation (APR). The W.C. Reid Center became Arthur R. Edington Education and Career Center focusing on career services.

Planning for further development at Grant Southside Center began soon after its opening but progressed slowly until voters approved funding through bonds in 2016. These funds supported several community projects including improvements at Walton Street Park and expansion of Grant Southside Center itself.

Completed in 2023, this expansion included indoor facilities like a gymnasium and meeting rooms alongside outdoor amenities such as solar panels, basketball courts, picnic areas, and a neighborhood swimming pool designed for multi-generational use.

Asheville Housing Authority took ownership of W.C. Reid Center while APR focused on enhancing recreational opportunities at Grant Southside Center reflecting ongoing commitment towards community welfare through strategic investments across different neighborhoods within city limits.