Construction is slated to start next month on Wake County’s first new park in 12 years. The Wake County Board of Commissioners has awarded a $20 million contract to build the 300-acre Beech Bluff County Park near Garner and Fuquay-Varina.

The last park Wake County opened was Green Hills County Park in July 2010.

“We’re excited to take the next step in the process to turn this beautiful piece of land in Southeastern Wake County into a park that everyone can enjoy,” said Board Chair Sig Hutchinson. “This investment shows our continued commitment to providing recreational opportunities for our residents and visitors, while preserving green space in our rapidly growing community.”

Construction is expected to be complete in Spring 2024. When it opens, Beech Bluff County Park will offer many features, including trails, community gardens, playgrounds, picnic shelters, a wildlife viewing platform, classrooms and much more. 

Public art is included in the park’s design, as well as renewable energy sources such as solar panels and geothermal energy to help power the lights and heat or cool the buildings. This marks the first time the county has combined all three in a single project.

Beech Bluff County Park is funded by the $120 million Wake County Parks, Greenways, Recreation and Open Space bond, which was approved by 68% of voters in 2018.

The park is located at 3355 N.C. Highway 42 in Willow Spring. Photos, renderings and a flyover video can be viewed here.