We live in a fast-paced world with many demands on our time. Health experts agree that to maintain good health it is important to set aside time to relax, connect with family and friends, and exercise. Since we have so many demands on our time, a place that provides opportunity for all three is ideal. The Beech Bluff County Park, which will be under construction beginning in November 2022, will provide that and more.
In 2019, the Wake County Board of Commissioners saw the need for a park in the southeast area of the county and approved the master plan for a $20 million project that will be completed in spring 2024. The area, consisting of 300 acres of undeveloped forests, wetlands, stream channels and rock outcrops, was officially named Beech Bluff County Park. The park is the first to be built by Wake County in more than 10 years and is funded by the $120 million Wake County Parks, Greenways, Recreation and Open Space bond, which was approved by voters in 2018.
“We’re excited to take the next step in the process to turn this beautiful piece of land in Southeastern Wake County into a park that everyone can enjoy,” said Board Chair Sig Hutchinson. “This investment shows our continued commitment to providing recreational opportunities for our residents and visitors, while preserving green space in our rapidly growing community.”
Located at 3355 N.C. Highway 42 in Willow Spring, on the border of Fuquay-Varina, Beech Bluff County Park will offer open spaces, trails, community gardens, overlooks, playgrounds, and picnic shelters. Beech Bluff is unique in that it was designed to preserve the ecological diversity of the area and help protect critical natural resources.
In addition to the recreation areas, Beech Bluff County Park will feature an agricultural component. Large garden and orchard areas, as well as teaching gardens, will be used to teach children about agriculture and the history of the area. A park center will house offices, classrooms, and meeting space for local clubs and organizations to study the plant and wildlife abundant in the park.
“Wake County parks focus on using the land as recreation,” said Chris Snow, director of Wake County Parks. “We want to provide a space where people can get outdoors in nature.”
The park’s design includes public art, as well as renewable energy sources such as solar panels and geothermal energy to help power the lights and heat or cool the buildings. Incorporating sustainability and green infrastructure was key in the design process.
Beech Bluff County Park will have something to offer everyone. Whether you are pushing your toddler on the swings, racking up your steps on the trails, or learning how to grow a better garden, Beech Bluff County Park will be a beautiful environment in which to relax and recharge.
