The proposed designs for the Malvern Hills Park pool renovation are making waves. The pool has been closed since a 2023 inspection concluded that extensive repairs were in order to meet safety needs.

After an outpouring of grassroots support, a rebuild of the historic pool was greenlit. The $4.75 million project is funded through a parks and recreation general obligation bond that was approved by voters last November.

Here are some key elements of the new design, informed by the results of a community preferences survey this past spring.

What's new?

While the new pool area is ~2,100 sqft (about 28.4%) smaller than the original pool, plans state that the capacity remains at ~200 people. Diagrams of the new pool show a more narrow deep end area near the diving board with the rest of the pool ranging between three and five feet. The deck area will be expanded and feature additional shaded areas.

The exterior of the original 1935 bathhouse will remain, but the building will get a new roof and windows, along with new accessible restrooms, showers, and changing stalls. Plus, the restrooms will stay open year-round for people using the park and playground, even when the pool is closed.

The exterior of the 1935 bathhouse will be preserved. | Rendering via City of Asheville

What's next?

While the city's public input portal states that the project's budget and scope parameters are finalized, you can still submit feedback on the designs through Sunday, Oct. 5. You can also provide comment in person at the West Asheville Tailgate Market on Tuesday, Sept. 30 from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. or at the RAD Farmers Market on Wednesday, Oct. 1 from 3 to 6 p.m.

Once the design is officially approved and a construction firm is selected, City Council will approve a contract, and construction will begin. Construction is estimated to begin next summer and wrap up before swimming season begins in summer 2028.