Ongoing Parks Bond Discussions

Over the last year city staff has presented information to the Raleigh City Council on a potential parks bond referendum. Initial analysis and engagement were conducted in early 2020. However, in April 2020, due to the impacts of COVID-19, the City Council decided to postpone the referendum process.

In the spring of 2021, City Council initiated further discussions on a potential parks bond referendum. Staff gave multiple presentations on possible projects and opportunities. Information on both the 2020 discussions and 2021 presentations are listed below. 
 

Parks Bond 2020 Process

Raleigh City Council directed the Parks, Recreation and Greenway Advisory Board (PRGAB) to compile a list of projects that would potentially be funded through a bond referendum, a list that would be exclusive of investments for Dorothea Dix Park, but complement the important work of making Dorothea Dix Park a world-class urban park. 

Between January and March 2020, the PRGAB conducted nine total meetings, including five public open house events, to develop a prioritized list of recommended park and greenway projects for the City Council to consider. This list was developed with a strong emphasis on equity, community feedback, and the expertise of City staff. The PRGAB presented its recommendation to City Council on April 7, 2020.

Due to uncertainty around the economic implications of COVID-19, City Council determined that a Parks Bond referendum was not be included on the November 2020 ballot. 

For additional information, including a live recording of the PRGAB presentation and City Council’s remarks on the decision to postpone the Parks Bond, please use the links below:

April 7, 2020 City Council presentation on the proposed Parks Bond

Memo to City Council presented by the Parks, Recreation and Greenway Advisory Board

If you have any questions, please contact parkplan@raleighnc.gov.

2021 Parks Bond Current Presentations

At the Raleigh City Council Retreat on March 12, 2021 city staff, the Parks Recreation and Greenway Advisory Board Chair, and CEO of the Dix Park Conservancy presentation information on a proposed Parks Bond. This included project lists and priorities.
 

At the Raleigh City Council Work Session on April 13, 2021 city staff presented updated bond information based on feedback from the March Council Retreat. In addition to the bond information staff also presented information on capital maintenance needs in the park system.

If you have any questions, please contact parkplan@raleighnc.gov.