County manager says Onslow County will seek consultant for comprehensive parks and recreation upgrades

Onslow County management reported that parks and recreation facilities across the county are safe and well used but are showing signs of wear and need investment, and the county will seek a consultant to help plan upgrades over the next five years.

County Manager David Bittenbender (identified in the meeting as the county manager) told the board he toured park facilities with Parks Maintenance Supervisor Doug Jones and met with the Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee. "One of this board's priorities is a comprehensive upgrade of all our parks and I can report to you that they are, while they're safe, and they are well used, and they are in good repair, they are very tired and are in need of a lot of investment," Bittenbender said.

He described next steps as seeking a consultant to help develop a coordinated five-year approach that will include conceptual planning for Hines Farm Park, Onslow Pines Park and a proposed indoor recreation facility. The manager said the county will plan these improvements in the context of the countywide parks and recreation system rather than isolating single facilities.

Commissioners echoed support for the effort and highlighted the county's young population as a driver for investment. Commissioner Buchanan said public input helped inform priorities for Hines Farm and Onslow Pines during a recent advisory meeting; Commissioner Carpenter thanked staff and noted finance and opioid-fund discussions earlier in the day's workshop.

The manager said the county will pursue a consultant over the coming months and integrate advisory committee input and systemwide needs into the final recommendations.