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ALAMANCE COUNTY, N.C. — September 11, 2026 — Alamance County Recreation and Parks has been awarded a $500,000 grant through the Parks and Recreation Trust Fund to support Phase 1 development of a new park in the Saxapahaw area. The Parks and Recreation Trust Fund is administered by North Carolina State Parks, a division of the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.

The first phase of the proposed park encompasses approximately 360 acres of undeveloped land south of Saxapahaw, providing a significant opportunity to expand outdoor recreation and preserve natural resources in one of Alamance County’s growing areas.

Phase 1 of the project will include the design and construction of Alamance County’s first dedicated mountain bike trail system, along with the construction of a new park trailhead, hiking trails, and other park amenities. The hiking trail network will also expand and enhance connectivity to both the Haw River State Trail and the Mountains-to-Sea State Trail, creating additional opportunities for residents and visitors to explore the area on foot.

“This grant represents an exciting investment in the future of outdoor recreation in Alamance County,” said Nolan Carter, Alamance Parks Trails and Open Spaces Coordinator. “The development of this new park will provide more opportunities for people to enjoy the outdoors, while also connecting existing trail systems and preserving valuable natural land for future generations.”

The mountain bike trail system will introduce a new type of recreational opportunity to Alamance County, providing trails designed specifically for mountain biking and creating a destination for both local riders and visitors from surrounding communities. In addition to expanding recreational offerings, the project has the potential to attract outdoor enthusiasts to the area and contribute to local tourism and economic activity.

The new park is envisioned as part of Alamance County’s continued investment in parks, trails, conservation, and outdoor recreation. Development of the property will be planned with consideration for the site’s natural features and will incorporate sustainable trail design practices to minimize environmental impacts while creating high-quality recreational experiences.

“Alamance County is fortunate to have an opportunity to develop a property of this size and natural significance,” said Jamie Merchel, Alamance Parks Director. “We are excited about what this project will ultimately offer our community and visitors, and we are grateful to the Parks and Recreation Trust Fund for helping make the first phase of this vision possible.”

Phase 1 development will advance the county’s efforts to create a connected network of outdoor recreational opportunities while expanding access to trails for hikers, mountain bikers, and other park visitors. Additional details regarding the project timeline and future park development will be announced as planning and design progress.

About Alamance County Recreation and Parks

Alamance County Recreation and Parks provides parks, trails, recreational programs, and outdoor experiences that promote health, community, conservation, and quality of life for residents and visitors throughout Alamance County.

For more information about Alamance County Recreation and Parks and trail initiatives, visit www.alamanceparks.com or follow Alamance Parks on social media.

For more information about the Haw River State Trail, visit www.hawrivertrail.org or follow Haw River Trail on social media.