June 17, 2009

Charlotte, NC--  Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation Department invites interested citizens to share their views in the first community workshop on developing a master plan for Ezell Farm Community Park in Mint Hill.  The workshop is Wednesday, July 29, 6:30pm at Mint Hill Town Hall in the John M. McEwen Assembly Room.

Ezell Park will be built on 95 acres along Matthews-Mint Hill Road (NC Highway 51) bounded by Well Road and Mintwood Road. It is in the Town of Mint Hill, about a mile south of the town center.  This will be a community park.  It will primarily serve residents of Mint Hill and northern Matthews. Community parks typically feature athletic fields (possibly lighted), playgrounds, walking trails, picnic areas, restrooms, parking, etc.

Phase I construction of the park is expected to cost about $3.6 million, paid for by 2008 Park and Recreation bonds. Additional phases will be developed as money is available. The master plan will be completed by the end of 2009.  Design and construction is expected to proceed after the bonds are sold, which may depend on the economy and decisions by Mecklenburg County Commissioners.

At the workshop on July 29, Park and Recreation staff will provide an introduction and background about the site. Then the East District Advisory Council will invite open discussion about community needs and desires for the park. Additional workshop(s) will be held as the plan develops so citizens may view concepts and comment further.  Park and Recreation will also confer with officials of the Town of Mint Hill as the plan develops.

This park is called by the name of the Ezell family who were previous owners of the property and managed a farm on it for many years. (That may or may not be the permanent,  official name of the park). For more information, please contact Park Planner David Nelson: 704-336-8455 or David.Nelson@MecklenburgCountyNC.gov .