News

YMCA promises more rec programs at Patton Park

Henderson County Lacrosse Club players warm up with a run at Patton Park.

By Bill Moss, Published: March 8, 2018

City of Hendersonville and Hendersonville Family YMCA officials say residents will have more recreation opportunities now that the City Council has authorized the Y to manage Patton Park and Pool.

The City Council OK’d the three-year agreement Thursday night after adding language in the contract that recognizes the use of athletic fields by Henderson County public school sports teams.
Hendersonville residents will enjoy the same level of park access they have now, with the same hours of operation, but with more activities, the YMCA says. The Y will offer swim lessons and swim team, youth sports, and summer day camp, as well as programs for families and active older adults.
“Year-round programming means more staff will be on site more often, and those extra eyes will ensure that the park and pool are safe for individuals and families,” city Public Works Director Tom Wooten. “Current amenities will be enhanced, making Patton Park an even more attractive City asset.”
The Hendersonville Family YMCA Advisory Committee endorsed the arrangement.


“This partnership between an exceptional nonprofit and the City of Hendersonville is the perfect example of what makes Henderson County great,” said John M. Bryant, the advisory committee chair and associate superintendent of the Henderson County public schools. “It aligns with the Y’s pillars of focus – youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility – and gives us the ability to ensure that we’re serving kids in our community, creating safety around water opportunities, and educating kids, not just providing them a fun and exciting opportunity over the summer. I’m so proud to be a supporter and encourager of the work the Y is doing in this community.”


The Y operates more than 2,000 pools nationwide, and invented the concept of group swimming lessons more than a century ago. 
The city will continue to manage pavilion rentals. The Y will have priority access to the pavilions during the summer months between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m., but will work with the city if a daytime rental request is received. Rentals at night and on weekends will not be limited during summer months. The Y will handle group reservations of the sports fields.
Registration for swim lessons, summer day camp and youth sports such as soccer, flag football, and lacrosse are now open at ymcawnc.org. New and existing YMCA members who purchase an annual pass to Patton Pool before May 24 are eligible for a $20 credit toward YMCA programs. 
For more information, contact the Hendersonville Family YMCA at 828-697-9622.