Plans for the future of Crowder County Park moved forward yesterday as the Wake County Board of Commissioners approved the park’s master plan, paving the way for major improvements and new features for visitors.
“This vote is an exciting milestone in our efforts to expand green space and recreational opportunities across Wake County,” said Susan Evans, chair, Wake County Board of Commissioners. “Crowder County Park has been a popular destination for families and nature-lovers for years, and this project ensures it will grow right along with the community it serves.”
The master plan will provide access to the additional land the County acquired in 2019. Funds from the voter-approved bond for Parks, Greenways, Recreation and Open Space were used to purchase those 96 acres, which grew the park from 33 to 129 acres.
What’s in the Plan
The master plan was developed after a 14-month process led by CLH Design that included community meetings, surveys and stakeholder input. The plan focuses on preserving natural areas while adding new amenities and features that reflect the community’s priorities.
With the plan now approved, the design of Phase 1 will begin later this year, with construction expected to start in fall 2026.
Highlights of Phase 1 will include:
- Signalized pedestrian crossing at Ten Ten Road
- Paved greenway connector, including a bridge over Dutchman’s Branch Creek
- Natural surface trails
- Park classroom and additional parking
- Picnic shelter
- Renovations to the existing park office
Crowder County Park opened in 1998 on land donated by Doris Pierce Crowder in 1992 for public recreation. Its current 33 acres provide outdoor recreational opportunities for all ages — including paved and natural surface trails, boardwalk across a 2.7-acre pond, open play field, sand volleyball court, outdoor amphitheater and three picnic shelters with adjacent playgrounds. In the last year, more than 200,000 people visited the park.
Learn more about Crowder County Park and get updates on the project at wake.gov/parks/crowder.
