A years-long renovation has been completed at Memorial Stadium. In 2016, Asheville voters approved a $17 million bond package to upgrade parks and recreation facilities, including the redevelopment of Memorial Stadium.

The site had long served as the home base for high school sports and recreation in Asheville's historically Black East End neighborhood, and for years, residents had continually called for the track to be rebuilt. As the stadium's centennial approaches, the venue's rich legacy of serving as a community resource continues with a new chapter — and a new track.

Back on track

In 2003, the track was removed to accommodate special events and sports teams, but now, a six-lane synthetic track once again surrounds the field.

What else is new? The field got fresh turf, a sidewalk was built surrounding the track for accessibility, and restrooms and storage facilities were replaced. Additionally, the adjacent Mountainside Park has received upgrades since 2020, including new paved walking paths, playground equipment, and lighting.

Crossing the finish line

Memorial Stadium is open, so you can go ahead and put some miles on the track — but you can also join the community in celebrating the project's completion at the Asheville Sports and Fitness Fair on Tuesday, April 15 at 5 p.m. Fitness organizations and youth + adult sports leagues will be on-site to host interactive games to get you moving and offer resources for healthy living.

Then, at 6 p.m., the city will host a ribbon cutting for the stadium, including a tribute to Asheville's veterans, for whom the stadium was originally dedicated in 1927.

Although construction has wrapped up at the stadium, the neighboring McCormick Field will continue to undergo renovations as the Asheville Tourists prepare for the 2025 season.