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Bethel Park moving toward opening; Catawba Meadows sections to reopen mid-July, staff outlines remaining work
Summary
Parks director reported playground equipment delivery for Bethel Park, eight pickleball courts nearing completion, and plans to open parts of Catawba Meadows Park and a new mountain bike trail in mid-July. Staff said some areas remain closed pending repairs and permitting.
MORGANTON — The city’s parks and recreation director updated the council on progress at Bethel Park and Catawba Meadows Park, announcing equipment deliveries and planned phased reopenings.
Brian Fish told the council the playground equipment ordered for Bethel Park should be delivered Aug. 1, with installation starting as soon as parts arrive; the installation contractor has recent experience on similar projects and Fish estimated a few weeks for installation. The project also includes a shelter, shade structures and benches.
Staff confirmed there will be eight pickleball courts at Bethel Park; asphalt paving is in place and line painting will follow after the asphalt cures. Staff also reported progress on futsal courts, fencing and other site work.
On Catawba Meadows Park, Fish said staff plans a mid-July opening of sections that are safe for public use — including a Greenway segment from River Village down toward the area near Jurora Village and the playground after repairs. The playground contractor, Beanstalk Builders, has completed most repairs but is awaiting one delayed part. The restroom and canteen buildings remain under repair and are not yet open. Staff said some park areas, including fields and the boardwalk, remain closed; the boardwalk has been removed and engineering work is underway to design a replacement.
Fish said the city will install taller fencing at the front playground area, will post trespassing signage, and will barricade hazardous sections. The Foothills Conservancy handled construction of a new mountain bike trail; staff said it will open with signage and parking access from the greenway behind the softball fields when ready. The disc golf course will be playable in its current layout but will be moved later to accommodate a new maintenance shed.
Staff asked the public to avoid barricaded areas for safety; councilmembers thanked parks crews and maintenance staff for the work and said they expect the front part of the park to be ready for public use in coming weeks.
