Comment
Print
The Town of Rutherfordton announces the appointment of Lindy Abrams as the first Director of the newly established Parks, Arts, Recreation & Culture (PARC) Department. This new department represents a major step forward in the Town's commitment to enhancing quality of life, community engagement, and cultural vibrancy, said Town Manager Doug Barrick.
In her new role, Abrams will lead the implementation of Rutherfordton's 2025 Parks & Recreation Master Plan and oversee key projects aimed at expanding recreational, cultural, and community opportunities.
Among the first major initiatives under her leadership are:
•Norris Park Completion & Community Launch - The Town is preparing to open the newly completed Norris Park, with a "Party in the Park" community celebration scheduled for Saturday, March 7, 2026.
•Purple Martin Greenway Expansion - Planning is underway for the next phase of the Purple Martin Greenway, ultimately connecting it to the Thermal Belt Rail Trail, enhancing connectivity and outdoor recreation opportunities.
•Crestview Park Master Plan - With funding from the RHI Legacy grant, the Town will develop a site-specific master plan for Crestview Park, laying the groundwork for phased improvements and future state and federal funding opportunities.
•Ruff'ton Roots Community Garden - A longstanding community project, Ruff'ton Roots is now officially a project of the PARC Department. Under Abrams' leadership, the garden will continue to thrive and expand educational and community programming opportunities.
Abrams brings a wealth of experience in arts management, community development, and environmental stewardship. Her deep understanding of the community, strong professional background, and passion for seeing her hometown shine set her apart from more than 20 other applicants.
Doug Barrick, Town Manager, said, "Her vision, energy, and dedication are already making a difference as we move toward a vibrant 2026 for Rutherfordton. This is about more than parks, it's about creating spaces and programs that bring our community together, promote wellness, and celebrate our unique culture."
Lindy Abrams, PARC Director, states "I was shaped by the ball parks and playgrounds of Rutherfordton as a child and have found respite on the greenways, parks and trails as an adult. I can't think of a better way to repay the town that made me who I am, than to give my very best to support an even better engagement with nature, connection and community for all of our residents."
Mayor Jimmy Dancy added, "Lindy Abrams is a hometown treasure. Her dedication, creativity, and tireless work for our community make her the perfect leader for our new PARC Department. From her successes with Ruff'ton Roots to her vision for a more connected, vibrant Rutherfordton, she has already made a lasting impact. We are incredibly fortunate to have her guiding our parks, arts, and recreation initiatives."
The PARC Department will serve as a central hub for the Town's parks, trails, recreational programming, arts initiatives, and cultural events. By consolidating these services, Rutherfordton aims to provide holistic, high-quality opportunities that enhance community life for all residents. This role will also foster stronger collaboration among Rutherfordton's active and passive recreation organizations, youth and sports programs, and arts and cultural nonprofits, including Rutherfordton Little League, the Rutherford Outdoor Coalition (ROC), and many others. By working closely with these partners, the PARC Department will help ensure coordinated programming, shared resources, and vibrant community engagement opportunities for residents of all ages.
Save the Date: The Norris Park launch and "Party in the Park" celebration will take place Saturday, March 7, 2026. The community is encouraged to attend and join in the festivities.
The Parks, Arts, Recreation & Culture (PARC) Department manages Rutherfordton's vibrant collection of parks, trails, recreational, and cultural facilities. These resources provide opportunities for active and passive recreation, community gatherings, and engagement with arts and culture.
Current Parks & Recreation Assets:
•Crestview Park- 26 acres; multipurpose field, 5 baseball fields, playground, picnic shelter, basketball and tennis courts, 4 pickleball courts, concession stand, restrooms, and paved walking path.
•Kiwanis Park- 5.27 acres; covered pavilion, playground, bridges, picnic areas, 10' wide walking path, and lawn space.
•Eric Wells Memorial Shelter- Restrooms, picnic tables, and fireplace.
•Marshall Dog Park- Two fenced dog lots, sunshades, dog playground, benches, water fountain, and shelter.
•Main St. Park- Stage, benches, flowerbeds, and trash facilities.
•Fairview Park- Playground, basketball court, covered shelter, restroom, and water fountain.
•Purple Martin Greenway- 2-mile paved walking path with bridges, shelters, benches, and dog waste stations.
•Thermal Belt Rail Trail (TBRT)- Rutherfordton manages a section spanning from Whitesides Road to Just near the McDonalds in Rutherfordton, part of a 13-mile multiuse trail.
•Rutherfordton Clubhouse- 3.6 acres, 2-story clubhouse with commercial kitchen and event capacity.
•Bechtler House- Heritage Museum - Historic exhibits including original coin press, Bechtler gold coins, and Bechtler rifle.
Future Parks & Recreation Assets & Projects:
•Rutherfordton Municipal Complex- Mini recreation court, community rooms, office space, storage, commercial kitchen, and potential multipurpose field.
•Norris Park- 50 acres with walking paths, picnic shelters, restrooms, open lawn, and an 18-hole disc golf course.
•Pocket Park at Creekwood Meadows- Passive park with potential benches and small play area.
•Purple Martin Greenway (Northern Expansion)- 1-mile expansion connecting to the Thermal Belt Rail Trail.
•RAISE Grant Pathway- Multiuse paths and sidewalks connecting Downtown Rutherfordton and the Purple Martin Greenway to the Thermal Belt Rail Trail.
Under the leadership of the PARC Department, Rutherfordton's parks, trails, and cultural assets are being enhanced and expanded, ensuring that residents of all ages have access to vibrant outdoor spaces, recreational opportunities, and cultural experiences.
For more information about the PARC Department, upcoming projects, and ways to get involved, visit www.rutherfordton.net.
