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Parks staff reports expanded youth, senior and cultural programming; tech labs and feeding program noted
Summary
Metro Parks presented an annual update for the wellness, community recreation and cultural arts division, reporting higher youth enrollment in after‑school and summer programs, new tech labs, expanded senior programming and a department-run after-school meal program. Staff said they expect further expansion as facilities and funding allow.
Metro Parks staff presented an annual update for the wellness, community recreation and cultural arts division that highlighted increased enrollment in youth and senior programs, expanded programming at community centers, and new or returning cultural offerings.
Highlights included: after‑school enrollment averaging about 2,500 daily, a summer enrichment program averaging about 3,700 participants; the opening of two additional tech labs (Coleman and McPheron community centers) sponsored by the Tennessee Titans and Verizon; and an after‑school feeding program (CACFP) that Metro Parks operates and said serves up to 600 children each weekday during the school year.
The division also reported growth in youth sports (junior NBA/WNBA programs, soccer, street hockey), expanded multigenerational offerings, and an increased senior program roster at Elizabeth, East and Hadley senior centers. Staff described cultural arts expansions, including reinstatement of a theater supervisor position after five years and planning for a potter studio and expanded visual arts and dance programming at Old Hickory Community Center and the Centennial Arts Center.
Staff noted the lifeguard academy and travel programs for seniors, special events (big band dances, Tales at Twilight, Centennial park festival) and partnerships with the Parks Foundation and local universities for instruction and coaching. Metro Parks said the department had more than 60,000 class attendances in 2024 and expects further growth as Old Hickory and other facilities come online.
Board members asked about engagement with potential professional-team partnerships (WNBA) and how that might connect to existing youth programs. Staff said existing NBA/NBA Jr. partnerships provide a framework and that parks will pursue engagement for youth opportunities as professional teams locate in the city.
Staff emphasized that much of the division's progress relied on partnerships, philanthropic support and targeted grants.
