HENDERSON COUNTY, N.C (WLOS) — Monday was a big day for the Etowah community in Henderson County, as the county held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to open the long-awaited playground at Etowah Park.
The new and improved playground has been a long time coming for the county. They received a grant from the state back in 2021 and began work in 2023, but then the unexpected damage Hurricane Helene caused to their parks set them back almost a year.
While it was a longer project than anticipated, it made the grand opening even better.
JULY 21, 2025 – A new and long-awaited playground opened at Etowah Park in Henderson County on Monday, July 21. (Photo: WLOS Staff)
“We’re just excited to get it complete, as you can tell by the kids playing on the playground today. This is what makes my job fun,” said Bruce Gillian, director of Henderson County Parks and Recreation.
The new playground includes swing sets, pickleball and basketball courts, and fitness stations, as well as a story walk.
The story walk concept combines exercise and literacy. County officials said it’s an innovative way for families to walk in nature while also reading a story. This is the first permanent story walk in the county.
The playground is now open for everyone to enjoy, with the goal of families using the park to come together outdoors and enjoy their community for years to come.