Rockwell Park History
Preliminary Plans
The Rockwell Park was a dream of two former mayors of Rockwell, the late Bill Hall and the late Walter Boger. The Park began to become a reality when 13 1/2 acres was purchased from the Earl Sides Family in March of 1993 - a cow pasture to a Park in 6 years. Preliminary plans were drawn in January 1995. A street to the Park and the parking lot were completed in June 1997.
Funding
In June of 1997, the Park received a $50,000 matching funds grant from the North Carolina Park and Recreation Trust Fund which really started the ball rolling towards the construction of the Park.
The Park completed Phase I with funds from The Town of Rockwell, The Park and Recreation Trust Fund, Foundations, local companies and many individuals with monetary gifts, as well as countless hours of labor.
The Dedication of the Park was held on Sunday, June 27, 1997 at 3 PM.
Phase I
The initial phase of construction of the Park included extensive grading and landscaping, two shelters with picnic tables and grills accommodating approximately 270 people, playground equipment, bathrooms and storage building, horseshoe pits and a 1/3 mile walking and jogging trail.
Phase II
The second phase saw the addition of a softball field, a volleyball court, additional park benches, fitness centers around the trail, two bridges crossing the creek which runs through the Park, and an 800 foot split-rail fence lining the drive into the Park. More trees were planted, a basketball court was constructed, along with additional flowers and shrubs to adorn the Park, and another trail will be laid out along the creek.
Recent Additions
Recently two large shelters and one smaller shelter that is handicap accessible were added. There is a paved walking path and a paved bike/skate path for your enjoyment. A gazebo at the top of the hill allows you to sit and enjoy the Park. There is also a new covered swing across the creek for your enjoyment.
