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INDEPENDENT TRIBUNE: Midland unveiling plans for county’s biggest park
- Tim Reaves
- Aug 12, 2015
MIDLAND, N.C. -- County officials unveiled plans for the county’s largest park during a work session at Midland Town Hall on Tuesday.
Rob Wallace Park, located off U.S. 601 near Wallace Road in midland, will be about 190 acres when all phases are complete.
It will feature biking and hiking trails, a fishing pier, conventional and natural playgrounds, picnic shelters, paddleboats, an outdoor classroom, possible aerial parks and more.
Deputy County Manager Jonathan Marshall said the county is pursuing a $350,000 state grant. The county additionally has $1 million ready for Phase 1, which the county expects will be ready by late 2016. The entrance off Bethel School Road already is under construction.
Many of the features incorporate the natural surroundings. Active Living and Parks Director Londa Strong said the outdoor classroom will be located next to the lower pond where aquatic, amphibian, flora, as well as other environmental classes will be taught.
The natural playground includes play units made from using natural elements like downed trees as wildlife habitats, stumps as stepping blocks and vines to make swings.
“This park has been a long time coming for the town,” said Midland Mayor Kathy Kitts. The process started more than a decade ago, “and it’s finally coming to fruition.”
Funding was in jeopardy after budget cuts last year, but those funds were restored and the county is moving forward with the project.
“I really thank them for keeping their word,” she said. “It’s a huge economic development opportunity for Midland and the county. … It’s going to make Midland more of a destination. I can’t tell you how thrilled people are that this is finally happening.”
http://www.independenttribune.com/news/acre-wallace-park-to-have-fishing-pier-paddleboats/article_f5d32960-40e9-11e5-81cb-778e2844c081.html