Stories

Crafting the Future of County Parks

Published: September 22, 2025

Catawba County Parks is kicking off the process to update its Master Plan, a key initiative to evaluate current strengths, identify community needs, and explore opportunities for improvement across its four parks: Bakers Mountain Park, Mountain Creek Park, Riverbend Park and St. Stephens Park. 

As part of this process, residents are encouraged to share their stories, experiences, feedback, and ideas to help craft a vibrant and inclusive future for the County’s park system.

“Our parks, trails, and natural resources play a vital role in making Catawba County a thriving, healthy and welcoming community,” said Parks Director David Wagg. “To ensure it stays this way, we want to hear directly from the people who enjoy these spaces – and just as importantly, from those who may not currently use them.”

Residents are invited to attend a Community Input Meeting on Thursday, September 25, 2025, from 5:30–7:30 p.m. at the Main Library in Newton (115 West C Street). The event will provide an opportunity to meet with the planning team and park staff, view informational displays, and share insights that will inspire the long-term vision for Catawba County Parks over the next decade and beyond.  

Additionally, feedback can be submitted via an online survey. 

A Parks Master Plan is a comprehensive, long-term strategy that helps guide the future of parks, recreational programming and open spaces. It assesses current amenities and services, incorporates community feedback, and outlines recommendations for enhancing recreational offerings, accessibility and connectivity. By aligning community priorities with practical goals, the plan provides a roadmap for creating a more dynamic, inclusive and sustainable park system.

Catawba County Parks’ planning process will continue into 2026, culminating in a final plan scheduled for adoption in summer 2026.

For updates on the project and to learn more about Catawba County Parks, visit catawbacountyparks.org and follow @CatawbaCountyParksNC on Facebook or @CatawbaCountyParks on Instagram.