Wake County is launching the second phase of its Parks, Recreation and Open Space master planning process and inviting residents to see how their voices are shaping the future. The County has gathered months of community input on how people use, value and imagine local parks, preserves and recreation programs, and now staff are ready to share what they’ve learned.

The next phase includes unveiling the draft vision and goals that will guide the next 10 years of the County’s parks system. Residents will have opportunities to review the draft, talk with staff about how public feedback has influenced the plan so far and weigh in to help confirm priorities for the future.

“This plan will set the direction for how we protect and activate parks and open spaces for years to come,” said Wake County Commissioner Safiyah Jackson. “We’re excited to show residents how their input has already made an impact and to make sure we’re still on the right track.”

Make Your Mark on Wake County Parks

There are several ways to get involved with the process and provide feedback:

• Talk with the team in person: Staff will be at community events across the county this fall, including HollyFest in Holly Springs, Fall Fun Fest in Rolesville, STEM School BreakOUT in Cary, Wendell Market in Wendell, BBQ, Blues and Brews in Fuquay-Varina and Western Wake Farmer’s Market in Morrisville. Stop by the Wake County tent to learn about the plan and spin the prize wheel for fun giveaways!
• Attend a virtual presentation: Join the virtual meeting on Thursday, Nov. 13 to hear from staff and get an overview of the current plan.
• Explore online: Visit wake.gov/parks/masterplan anytime between Oct. 25 and Nov. 23 to view materials, read a summary of community input from the first engagement phase and help confirm priorities via an online survey.
   

Next Steps

Following this phase of engagement, the team will begin creating the final plan, which includes prioritizing the work and developing action steps. The master plan will be reviewed by park staff, the Open Space and Parks Advisory Committee and the Wake County Board of Commissioners. Adoption is set for spring 2026.

For more information, event dates, virtual meeting registration and materials, visit wake.gov/parks/masterplan.