Cabarrus County updates on parks bond projects and Bunny Run 5K plans

City Council members in Concord, NC, received an extensive update on various parks and recreation projects during the regular session on April 10, 2025. The meeting highlighted significant progress on multiple initiatives funded by general obligation bonds, with a focus on enhancing community recreational spaces.

James Kocinski, the Parks and Recreation Director, reported that the city is currently $1.7 million under budget for its bond projects. Notable developments include the recent reopening of North Park, which now features a new playground, and the upcoming Cuddle Creek Streambank repair project set to commence in May.

The Academy Gibson McGinnis Aquatic Center is also under construction, with an anticipated opening date of May 24, coinciding with the start of the regular pool season. Meanwhile, the Marvin Caldwell Park project is progressing, with stormwater control measures nearing completion, although the overall project is expected to wrap up in summer 2026.

A major highlight was the bid opening for Grama Park, where JD Goodrum submitted the lowest bid of $17.9 million, significantly under the engineer's estimate. Construction is slated to begin in May, with a groundbreaking ceremony in the works.

Kocinski also discussed future projects, including the Academy Gibson athletic fields and a traffic garden designed to teach children safe street navigation. The skate park and sculpture garden are in the design phase, with final plans expected by mid-year.

In addition to project updates, Kocinski announced the Bunny Run 5K and Fun Run scheduled for April 18, which has already attracted over 650 participants, promising to be one of the city's largest events of the year.

The meeting underscored the city's commitment to enhancing recreational facilities and community engagement, with several projects on track to improve the quality of life for Concord residents.