Spring Lake resident urges Fayetteville to improve local parks and recreation facilities

During the Fayetteville City Council meeting on March 13, 2025, significant concerns were raised regarding the state of recreational facilities in Spring Lake, particularly the local parks and recreation program. A resident highlighted ongoing issues with the condition of the fields used for youth sports, specifically noting safety hazards such as rocks and debris that have led to injuries among young players.

The resident recounted their efforts to improve the situation, which included reaching out to both Cumberland County and Spring Lake Recreation for assistance. However, they faced a frustrating cycle of referrals and unreturned calls, which hindered progress. The speaker emphasized that the lack of proper maintenance and resources, such as fresh infield dirt, is detrimental to the community's recreational needs and long-term planning goals.

In a positive turn, the resident mentioned that they had been informed that the fields would soon be redone, although the timeline for these improvements remains unclear. The discussion also revealed a disconnect in communication, as Spring Lake was not included in the Fayetteville Fix It program, which is designed to address community issues. This oversight has left many requests for assistance unaddressed.

City officials acknowledged the complexities surrounding the management of Spring Lake's parks, clarifying that while Spring Lake falls under the purview of Cumberland County Parks and Recreation, there is a need for better coordination and communication between the two entities. The council expressed a commitment to ensuring that the resident's concerns would be communicated to the appropriate county officials.

The meeting underscored the importance of recreational facilities in fostering community engagement and safety, highlighting the need for local governments to work collaboratively to address the needs of all residents, including those in Spring Lake. As the council moves forward, the focus will likely remain on improving communication and ensuring that necessary resources are allocated to enhance the recreational experience for the community.