When the Parks and Recreation Department began in 1996, the only program offered was a fledgling fall soccer league with 40 participants. Holly Springs Park was located where the Cultural Center is today and consisted of seven acres featuring two tennis courts, one athletic field, one basketball court, and a picnic shelter.
The issuance of $2 million in voter-approved bonds in 1997 enabled the Town to purchase the property for Bass Lake Park, Jones Park, and Womble Park, as well as the Holly Springs Optional School, which later became the Hunt Recreation Center. Later acquisitions and park improvements included the Cultural Center and Veterans Park. Since 1998, the Town has required residential developers to dedicate land, build greenways, or pay a fee-in-lieu for the purpose of expanding recreation and leisure opportunities. Then, in 2011, a second $20 million bond was approved which led to land purchases for Jefferson L. Sugg Farm, the North Main Athletic Complex, and the Mims Property.
Parks and Recreation programming has expanded to include both youth and adult athletics, before and after school programs, track out camp, summer camp, fitness classes, nature and outdoor, performing and visual arts, cooking, and specialized recreation classes.
The 20 Year celebration of these accomplishments kicks off at the Holly Springs July 5th Event. Through the generous support of sponsors, the Independence Day celebration will include more rides and inflatables for the entire family, live music from The Embers, and end with the largest fireworks display the Town has ever hosted, weather permitting. The celebration will continue at HollyFest in October and in December with the Cultural Center 10th Anniversary Event.
(Sugg Park)
