Rowan County Parks and Recreation has received a $450,000 Accessible Parks Grant for the renovation of the bathhouse at Dan Nicholas Park. The grant, which was the second-highest-scoring application in its batch, will significantly enhance the park’s accessibility for individuals with disabilities.

Gov. Roy Cooper announced a total of $17.9 million in grants to fund 46 local parks and recreation projects across North Carolina through the Parks and Recreation Trust Fund (PARTF). The Parks and Recreation Authority approved these grants at its meeting on Aug. 23.

“These awards through the Parks and Recreation Trust Fund and the Accessible Parks Grant will bring tremendous impact to communities across North Carolina by providing more parks, more trails, and more accessible recreation,” Cooper said.

The Accessible Parks Grant program, for which $12.5 million was appropriated in the 2023 budget, aims to provide matching grants for local parks and recreation projects that benefit people living with disabilities. This program allows for the construction of special facilities or the adaptation of existing facilities to meet the unique needs of persons living with disabilities, enabling them to participate in recreational and sporting activities, regardless of their abilities.

“North Carolinians love their parks and recreation areas,” said N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources Secretary D. Reid Wilson. “These projects will enhance quality of life, improve health and strengthen local economies.”

The renovation of the bathhouse at Dan Nicholas Park will include modernizing the facilities to ensure they are fully accessible and meet the needs of all visitors. This project is part of Rowan County’s ongoing commitment to providing inclusive and accessible recreational opportunities for all residents and visitors.

“We are incredibly grateful to receive this $450,000 Accessible Parks Grant for the renovation of the bathhouse at Dan Nicholas Park,” said Rowan County Parks and Recreation Director Don Bringle. “By modernizing our facilities, we are taking a significant step towards ensuring that everyone, regardless of their abilities, can fully enjoy the beauty and recreational opportunities our park has to offer. This project underscores our commitment to accessibility and community well-being.”

Rowan County Parks and Recreation is excited, he said, to begin this project and looks forward to the positive impact it will have on the community. The renovation is expected to be completed by the end of next year, providing a more inclusive and enjoyable experience for all park visitors.