Warren Wilson College Receives $1.6 Million Grant to Reopen Aquatic Center

Warren Wilson College learned today that it was awarded $1.6 million from the Tourism Product Development Fund (TPDF) to complete renovations and reopen the Warren Wilson College Aquatic Center, which has been closed since 2017.

“Securing funding for the completion of the pool has been a top priority,” said Damián J. Fernández, Ph.D., President of Warren Wilson College, who joined the College in 2023. “We are grateful for the support from the TPDF, which moves us a big step closer to achieving that goal. This grant will allow us to create a state-of-the-art facility that will serve our students, the local community, and the broader Asheville region for years to come. We are committed to raising the additional funds required to finish the project—about another $1.6 million. Several donors have pledged contributions to kick start our fundraising effort.”

The renovation project will provide significant upgrades to support swimming and diving competitions, including increased total square footage (from 7,500 to 10,000), 1-meter and 3-meter diving boards, and seating for up to 300 spectators and athletes. Construction will start next summer and the pool will open in early 2027.

“The symbolic meaning of this project cannot be overstated,” Fernández said. “After years of inactivity, the Aquatic Center’s re-opening is a physical representation of the renewal of the College and builds on the tremendous momentum generated by the entire Warren Wilson community over the last 26 months.”

Once reopened, the Aquatic Center will serve not only Warren Wilson students and staff but also the broader Swannanoa Valley community as well. It will host NCAA collegiate and high school swimming and diving meets and will offer wellness programs and swim lessons. The revitalized facility will boost local community engagement and contribute to regional economic development. The reopening will stand as a symbol of progress, resilience, and the College’s dedication to holistic education and community partnership. 

“As our community continues to bounce back and move forward from Hurricane Helene, this year’s Tourism Product Development Fund investments are powerful commitments to supporting Asheville and Buncombe County’s resilience,” said Vic Isley, President and CEO of Explore Asheville and the Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority. “These investments, powered by lodging tax paid by visitors, align with the authority’s strategic imperatives crafted from hundreds of hours of listening to the community and demonstrate how travel and hospitality is an essential contributor to our community’s ability to rebound quicker. Each project creates a compelling new reason for visitors to choose Buncombe County while delivering tangible benefits that enhance pride, quality of life, and experience for residents throughout Buncombe County.”