Wake Forest to Increase Focus on Parks and Recreation

It is so important for children to be able to play outside. No child should spend all day, everyday in front of the television or computer screen. Kids need stimulation. They need to be able to run around outside and use their imagination. Fortunately, the town of Wake Forest is taking this need seriously.

Out of Wake Forest’s proposed spending plan of $3 million for the coming year, the town has worked together to identify $500,000 in parks projects that they want to tackle.

Wake Forest has made plans for new initiatives that will increase the focus on parks and recreation offerings within the town. The town’s first sprayground is scheduled to open at Taylor Street Park in September. This interactive water feature will give children a new place to cool off during the hot summer months. Additionally, there are plans to install spraygrounds at three more parks over the next four years – E. Carroll Joyner Park, Holding Park and J.B. Flaherty Park.

The town is able to add several spraygrounds throughout the Wake Forest area because these interactive water features are much less expensive to install than a new pool. In fact, the town’s one and only pool is over 70 years old. While a new pool would cost millions of dollars, the sprayground coming to Taylor Street Park is estimated to cost around $325,000. These new spraygrounds will be a refreshing addition for children to enjoy in the coming years.

Other projects are scheduled to take place in addition to the spraygrounds. In the proposed spending plan, the Smith Creek Soccer Center would also see several enhancements. The playground, parking and restrooms would all be updated to meet the federal requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act, making the facility more accessible for everyone. Additionally, a bridge on the path of the Kiwanis Greenway would be replaced.

By placing the focus of spending on parks and recreation matters, the town of Wake Forest is wisely investing in our children and community. The new spraygrounds and other proposed updates would be enjoyed by many for years to come.

Our community has also recognized the need for outdoor recreation options. The Somerset Pavilion at Holding Village is set to be completed this summer. This pool and clubhouse amenity will give individuals and families a place to swim, picnic and spend time together.