As part of the Town’s strategic plan, Holly Springs is starting work on accessible amenities for Sugg Farm. The projects include an accessible community garden and play area that are supported by a half-million-dollar grant from the N.C. Parks and Recreation Trust Fund Accessibility for Parks project. The grant’s designated purpose is to fund the construction of new facilities or adapt existing facilities that meet the unique needs of children and veterans with disabilities.
“All of these amenities are being planned and designed with inclusiveness and accessibility as a top priority,” said Parks & Recreation Director LeeAnn Plumer. “This is one of the many initiatives we are doing as part of the Town Council’s strategic initiative to cultivate a creative and friendly atmosphere that is welcoming to all cultures and the diversity of our residents and visitors.”
The new Holly Springs community garden at Sugg Farm is planned to feature 30 raised garden beds for individual plot rental and is designated for the southernmost field near the greenway connection. Additional gardening beds are planned for camps, groups, and educational programming.
Yard hydrants for watering and a perimeter fence to deter wildlife from grazing also are planned. Shade, picnic tables, composting piles, an informational kiosk, and other amenities are being considered, as well. With construction planned to begin later this year, the garden is set to open in 2024.
“The Town is looking forward to providing an accessible community garden area for our residents,” Plumer said. “One of the biggest benefits of a project like this is that it builds community. Gardeners work together to grow not only healthy foods, but gardening also promotes socialization and can improve food security for many families.”
After the garden is complete, the Town is planning to construct an accessible nature play area nearby. This area will enhance natural land formations for unstructured active fun. Several stations in the area may use sound, tactile enrichment, and visual contrast to provide outdoor, inclusive experiences for children of all abilities to play together.
Future improvements at Sugg could include a program pavilion with restrooms.
Parks & Recreation Month Activities
The theme of this July’s Parks & Recreation Month – “Where Community Grows” – couldn’t be more fitting for Holly Springs!
A month full of fun, free activities is planned this July with Holly Springs Parks & Recreation. Visit hollyspringsnc.gov/parksmonth for all the details and links to preregister.
July 5th
Wednesday, July 5, 6 p.m.
Sugg Farm
Kick off the month with food and fireworks at Sugg Farm! The Town’s annual Independence Day celebration is traditionally held on July 5. Come early when the gates open at 6 p.m. to enjoy live music and select from a variety of food trucks. Fireworks will begin at about 9:15 p.m., weather permitting. Find details about vendors, activities, parking, and more: hollyspringsnc.gov/july5.
All Abilities Arts & Crafts
Thursday, July 13, 5-8 p.m.
Holly Springs Cultural Center
Children of all ages and abilities are welcome to drop by the Holly Springs Cultural Center anytime during this free workshop to explore different art techniques, make new friends, and get creative and messy. No advanced registration is required.
MLB Pitch, Hit, and Run Program
Saturday, July 15, 9 a.m.-noon
Womble Baseball Complex
Children up to age 14 are invited to put their baseball and softball skills to the test. Advanced registration is required for this free program.
Fireside Friday
Friday, July 21, 7-9 p.m.
Sugg Farm
Enjoy s’mores under the stars at Sugg Farm! Registered participants will be provided a roasting stick and sweet treat to enjoy by the fire. Games and other nighttime educational adventures also will be provided. Please register in advance for this free activity.
Free Movies, Scavenger Hunt, & More
The Parks & Recreation Month of fun continues with free movies at the Cultural Center, a scavenger hunt around Holly Springs parks and facilities, and more! Check out all the details about Parks & Recreation Month on our website, hollyspringsnc.gov/parksmonth!
