PRESS RELEASE

September Opening Set for Franklin County’s Newest Park
Groundbreaking for the V.E. and Lydia Owens Recreational Park expected in May, 2018

Franklin County, January 26, 2018: The countdown is on for the opening of the V.E. and Lydia Owens Recreational Park in Franklin County. Representatives from the McAdams Company offered an update to commissioners January 16, 2018 noting groundbreaking for Phase I improvements are planned for May, 2018 with an anticipated grand opening planned for September, 2018.

Phase I of the park will include a playground, a half-mile running/walking trail and fishing pier. It will also include an open lawn/event space, demonstration garden as well as road and parking.

In August, 2014 the county purchased 167 acres at the intersection of Massenburg-Baker Road and Wheless Road, northeast of Louisburg, formerly known as Bull Creek Golf and Country Club. The site was purchased with funds bequeathed to the County by the late Edgar H. Owens who wished to create a park and fishing pond for all county residents to enjoy. A master plan for the park was completed in March, 2016 based upon robust citizen input and additional funding was secured on August 1, 2017 to complete improvements identified within Phase 1.

Full detail about the park and the planning process is included within the master plan facilitated by the McAdams Company and can be viewed at https://files.www.franklincountync.us/parks/2016-03-18_VE_Lydia_Owens_MasterPlan_-_Final.pdf.

For additional information, please contact Angela L. Harris, Franklin County Manager, at (919) 496-5994.

Franklin County Government is committed to effective and innovative public services for all Franklin County citizens and businesses.