For the development of the Rural Hall Parks & Recreation Master Plan, WithersRavenel worked closely with Rural Hall town staff, a volunteer steering committee and the community to create a vision for improvements to three separate town-owned properties. These include an undeveloped space in front of Town Hall, Covington Memorial Park, and a 24-acre undeveloped property across the railroad tracks from Covington Memorial Park.
The process for preparing plans for these three sites included site analysis, the creation of alternative concepts for future development, engagement with staff, steering committee and the community and the preparation of final master plans along with estimates of probable construction cost. Community meetings were held to identify the recreational needs of the community and to solicit input on alternative concept plans.
Final master plans for each site respond to the opportunities and constraints for development inherent in each site with the community’s recreational needs and aspirations. The master plan for the Town Hall site balances flexibility for large community events with everyday use and improved aesthetics. Improvements identified for Covington Memorial Park revolve around improved experiences for children including a splash pad and accessible / inclusive playground. The plan for the 24-acre property features an amphitheater, pedestrian and bicycle trails, community center, restrooms, dog park and a playground.
On the heels of the master planning effort, WithersRavenel’s funding team prepared a PARTF grant application for improvements to Covington Memorial Park. That grant was awarded in 2024.
