News Summary

The Grant Southside Center Pool in Asheville, N.C., has officially reopened after a two-day closure due to safety concerns, including a firearms incident. City officials implemented enhanced security measures, including uniformed personnel, to ensure swimmer safety. The pool’s operating hours will be adjusted for Independence Day. Parks and Recreation Director emphasized the importance of safe conduct in public areas. Alternative swimming options in the area were suggested during the closure as the city worked towards restoring a secure environment for community members.

Asheville Reopens Grant Southside Center Pool After Safety Concerns

The Grant Southside Center Pool in Asheville, N.C., will reopen on Friday, July 4, following a two-day temporary closure due to safety concerns related to recent incidents, including a firearm possession case involving a juvenile at the pool.

The pool was closed on Wednesday and Thursday after the Asheville Parks and Recreation Department cited “multiple incidents” that created unsafe conditions for swimmers. The closure was prompted by recent behavior at the pool that alarmed officials, including individuals disregarding lifeguard instructions and the use of firecrackers on the pool deck.

The significant incident that triggered immediate action occurred on Tuesday, July 1, when officers from the Asheville Police Department apprehended a juvenile around 3:22 p.m. The juvenile was found in possession of a firearm at the pool. Fortunately, the weapon was safely secured by the police, and no injuries were reported as a result of this incident. Following the arrest, police detectives began collaborating with the Department of Juvenile Justice to evaluate possible charges against the juvenile.

In light of the closure, all scheduled programs at the Grant Southside Center Pool, such as water aerobics and teen pool parties, were canceled. The parks and recreation officials have implemented measures to enhance security and ensure community safety during the pool’s reopening.

The pool’s reopening will feature modified operating hours set from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Independence Day. City officials have also announced that uniformed security personnel will be present at the pool throughout the weekend to monitor activities and provide added safety assurances.

Parks and Recreation Director D. Tyrell McGirt reiterated the department’s commitment to maintaining a safe environment for community members and stressed the continued importance of practicing safe behavior in public spaces.

In the wake of the pool’s closure, city officials encouraged residents to explore alternative public swimming options available in the area. Alternative locations include facilities operated by Buncombe County Parks & Recreation and the Splasheville public pool located in Pack Square Park. City officials aim to support community members during this transitional period as they work towards restoring normalcy at the Grant Southside Center Pool.

The Asheville Parks and Recreation Department is actively focused on finding viable solutions to ensure a safe environment for returning visitors. City leaders have committed to providing updates regarding the pool and any additional safety measures that may be instituted in the future, as the priority remains the well-being of all guests.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Grant Southside Center Pool Temporarily Closes for Safety
Juvenile Arrested for Bringing Firearm to Asheville Pool
Asheville Public Pools Set to Open for Summer Fun

Additional Resources

• WYFF News: Asheville Pool Closure After Teen Arrested
• Fox Carolina: Asheville Pool Closed After Juvenile Found with Gun
• WLOS: Asheville Temporarily Closes Grant Southside Center Pool
• MSN: Asheville Community Pool to Reopen with Increased Security
• Wikipedia: Swimming Pool