Stories
Looking Ahead: Catawba County Parks Master Plan Adopted
Published: September 30, 2026
The future of Catawba County Parks has a new roadmap. On September 21, 2026, the Catawba County Board of Commissioners adopted the 2026–2036 Catawba County Parks Master Plan, marking an important milestone in planning for the next decade of the County’s park system.
The 10-year plan provides a framework for preserving Catawba County’s unique and diverse natural heritage, providing quality park experiences, guiding future investment, and responding to the needs of a growing community. It builds on the strengths of the existing park system while identifying opportunities to better serve residents and visitors in the years ahead.
A Plan Shaped by Community Input
Developed over the past year with planning consultant McAdams, the Master Plan brings together community feedback, data, and a comprehensive assessment of Catawba County’s four parks, 1,494 acres of parkland, 44.64 miles of trails, amenities, operations, and services.
Community input was central to the process. Residents, park users, staff, County leadership, conservation organizations, and regional recreation and trail partners shared their experiences, priorities, and ideas through public engagement events, focus groups, meetings, and a statistically valid survey.
That feedback helped shape five priorities for the next decade:
- Trail expansion and greenway connectivity
- Nature-based recreation
- Outdoor and environmental education
- Accessibility and inclusive recreation
- Land conservation and stewardship
Together, these priorities reflect the importance of protecting natural resources while providing meaningful opportunities to connect with nature, learn outdoors, and enjoy high-quality park experiences.
Looking Ahead to the Next Decade
The Master Plan translates these priorities into recommendations and action items, with short-, near-, and long-term implementation time frames covering the full 10-year planning period. It also identifies potential partners and funding sources to help guide future investment and implementation.
Adoption establishes a shared roadmap for decision-making. Individual recommendations will advance over time as funding, partnerships, and other resources become available. The plan will help Catawba County Parks evaluate opportunities, set priorities, and make informed decisions about the future of the park system.
Thank you to everyone who contributed their time, knowledge, and perspectives throughout the planning process. Your input helped shape this roadmap for the next decade of Catawba County Parks.
Read the 2026–2036 Catawba County Parks Master Plan to explore the recommendations and priorities for the years ahead.