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Pender County parks: Hampstead Kiwanis phase work, Central Pender opening and Willard area park interest
Summary
Parks staff reported continued construction on Hampstead Kiwanis and Central Pender Park phases, progress on playgrounds and shelters, and early discussions about a potential new park or soccer field near the Willard Outreach Center to serve incoming housing growth.
Pender County Parks and Recreation staff summarized steady progress on capital park projects and raised topics for future planning and capital requests.
Staff reported Hampstead Kiwanis Park phase work continuing with court surfacing, restroom and picnic shelter construction and that a contractor’s final punch list remains under review; the county is withholding final contract retainage pending resolution of asphalt and paving concerns. Central Pender Park Phase 1 also advanced and staff expect to open additional fields and amenities later in the year. Parks staff said the project schedules are weather‑dependent and noted planting and completion milestones for field grass and landscape work.
Parks staff briefed the board on a need for an east side maintenance/storage shed and laydown yard to support Hampstead operations; they asked that the board consider funding that as a capital project (estimates presented to be handled via capital project funds rather than operating budget). Staff also noted requests for playground replacement for units out of warranty at Hampstead Kiwanis Park and suggested a phased playground replacement plan carried out over several years to manage cost and safety concerns.
Commissioner questions focused on site safety, drainage, parking and options for future park land in the Willard area: staff said they had been contacted about potential recreational space at the Willard Outreach Center and that rapid housing growth nearby could create demand for a larger neighborhood park. Commissioners asked staff to pursue follow‑up site meetings, explore existing county‑owned parcels, and coordinate with community stakeholders.
Staff also presented an update on the county shooting range (fee‑supported enterprise) and said the range continues to operate on a breakeven basis with growing use; the sheriff’s office may use the range under a future agreement pending a formal contract amendment.
