Celebrate National Park and Recreation Month with Pitt County
National theme ‘Build Together, Play Together’ unveiled through ribbon cutting events
July marks National Park and Recreation Month and Pitt County Cultural Arts & Recreation (CA&R) exemplifies how Pitt County is stronger, more vibrant and resilient through month-long celebrations, including ribbon cutting ceremonies for the newly constructed community centers. Additionally, expanded programming is now available for residents of all ages and abilities.
“Pitt County embraces the 2025 national park theme “Build Together, Play Together” as we open multimillion-dollar community centers that will change the landscape of County recreation,” says Benji Holloman, Chair, Pitt County Board of Commissioners.
In 2023, County staff worked with design professionals from Rivers & Associates, Inc. to develop a recreation site plan for the Pitt County Office Park Community Center and the adjacent outdoor space located north of the Tar River. The project was part of the $10 million ($5 million each) American Rescue Plan funding for two community centers. The second center is located at the Alice F. Keene District Park/County Home Complex.
“These centers are a direct investment in the people of Pitt County. They represent our long-term commitment to enhance the health, safety and well-being of our community by advocating for and providing quality services. Creating equal spaces that bring our community together embodies the Pitt County mission,” says Janis Gallagher, Pitt County Manager.
“This is more than just a celebration; it’s a milestone in community-building. We look forward to welcoming residents into these new spaces,” says Jennifer Lanier-Coward, Director, Pitt County Cultural Arts and Recreation. “These centers are designed to serve all of our community, from youth programs, adult fitness classes to senior activities and inclusive programming/recreation. It’s about creating opportunities for connection, growth and lifelong wellness.”
Grand Open House events for the general public will be held Tuesday, August 12 and Wednesday, August 13 by reservation only. Contact CA&R at 252-902-1975 for details.
Lanier-Coward continues, “additionally, a variety of activities are available for all ages and abilities. Interested participants can view programming and sign up in person at the centers or online at https://secure.rec1.com/NC/pitt-county-nc/catalog.”
County staff are currently reviewing bid responses for the park design and development at the Office Park location. View project information at https://www.pittcountync.gov/335/Recreation-Planning.
Public Service Announcements: Pitt County Government will feature park and recreation posts on its Facebook pages @PittCountyNC and @PittCulturalArtsRec. The website PittCountyNC.gov will display similar information on the homepage.
For more information, contact Cultural Arts & Recreation at 252-902-1975.
The Mission of Pitt County Government is to enhance the health, safety, and well-being of our community by advocating for and providing quality services in a friendly and cost-effective manner. Learn more: www.PittCountyNC.gov.
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