Asheville To Host Ribbon Cutting For New Playground

The City of Asheville Parks and Recreation Department plans to host a ribbon cutting ceremony for the recently installed playground at Stephens-Lee Community Center on Thursday, January 15, at 4 p.m. The ceremony will feature brief remarks followed by a reception in Stephens-Lee Center building. Guests are invited to stay until 5 p.m. to enjoy snack and connect with neighbors and project partners.  

“We are profoundly grateful for the kindness of Superior Recreational Products and MAPA Recreation to support our commitment to long-term health and well-being of our community,” said APR Director D. Tyrell McGirt. “The Stephens-Lee playground will be more than just a safe place to play; it is an essential space for our children and families to reconnect, heal, and find joy on our path to recovery.” 

The new playground, a tower-style structure featuring soaring deck heights, multiple slides, climbers, and a large shade topper, was made possible through a generous recovery-related donation from Superior Recreational Products and MAPA Recreation via the Superior HOPES program. Accepted by City Council in October, this addition serves as a vital space for children and families to reconnect and heal following the city-wide impacts of Tropical Storm Helene in 2024. 

Ribbon Cutting for Stephens-Lee Community Center Playground Details 

Thursday, January 15, at 4 p.m. 

Stephens-Lee Community Center on 30 George Washington Carver Ave. 

Reception to follow immediately inside the center until 5 p.m. 

Inclement Weather Plan: In the event of inclement weather, the ceremony will be rescheduled for Wednesday, January 22, at 4 p.m. An announcement regarding rescheduling will be made on January 14 if necessary. 

This project marks APR’s eleventh complete playground replacement since 2019, continuing the City of Asheville’s mission to provide safe and meaningful recreational spaces for all residents. 

Here are some images of the new playground: