The City of Havelock is pleased to announce that it has been awarded a Parks and Recreation Trust Fund (PARTF) grant for $500,000 to develop the Lewis Farm Rd. project.
The land acquisition is funded by a partnership headed by the Coastal Land Trust and MCAS Cherry Point through the United States Navy, purchasing the land and deeding to the City of Havelock for recreation use only and limited development.
Mayor Jimmy Sanders said, “This is a win\win. Cherry Point is protected from encroachment and our citizens are getting a much needed additional area for recreation. An excellent example of what we can do if we all work together. My sincere thanks to the PARTF grant program for making this possible.”
The acquisition of this property will provide additional recreational space to residents at the west end of Havelock, who previously were required to travel to the Recreational Complex on Hwy 101. In addition, the acquisition restricts additional residential or commercial development near the flight path from MCAS Cherry Point, adding to the commitment to preventing encroachment.
Janice Allen, Deputy Director for the North Carolina Coastal Land Trust commented “…this is wonderful news about the PARTF grant. The Coastal Land Trust appreciates the partnership with the Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, the State Clean Water Management Trust Fund and the City to acquire the Lewis Farm Road property and now looks forward to working with the City on its future park planning.”
The site is over 40 acres and, according to Parks and Recreation Director David Smith, will “provide much needed recreation space. Also, some of the residents in the area have chosen to work with the City in developing compatible recreational opportunities.”
Project development assistance for the grant was provided by Municipal Engineering Services out of Garner, NC. The initial development phase will include a gravel parking lot; one regulation sized and lighted soccer field, restrooms, and three (3) picnic shelters. Additional phases will include additional shelters, one more field, trails, and additional cleared space for unorganized outdoor activities.
For additional information about the project, please contact Parks and Recreation Director, David Smith, at 252-444-6439.
Submitted by: Diane Miller, Communications Coordinator, City of Havelock, NC