City officials break ground for new park
Submitted
The former site of Vulcan Materials near Reynolds Park Rd. will be the home of Quarry Park, which is expected to include several picnic areas and an amphitheater.
By Tevin Stinson
The Chronicle
The former Vulcan quarry just off Reynolds Park Rd. took a giant step toward the future last Friday when a groundbreaking ceremony was held for phase one of the new Quarry Park.
According to city leaders, the finished product will include an amphitheater, a disc golf course, and several picnic shelters. The park will also include additions to the greenway connector system that will provide citizens in the Waughtown area access to the William R. Anderson Jr. Recreation Center located at 2450 Reynolds Park Rd.
Phase one of the project will cost the city $5 million, which is part of $30.85 million parks and recreation bond that was approved by voters in 2014. The first phase is expected to include the construction of parking areas and bathrooms.
Vulcam Materials, a company that used to obtain rock for construction at the site, ceased operation in the early 1980 and the city took over the 228-acre site in 1997.
Since the early 1990s the quarry has been filling with water. Although not many citizens have seen the site, those who have believe the crystal blue water surrounded by steep jagged cliffs and rocks would make the perfect location for a park.
Winston-Salem resident Allison Joyner said as a child she and a few friends would make trips through the woods just to get a glimpse at the natural wonder.
“It’s really hard to believe something like that is right here in Winston-Salem,” she said. “I can’t wait to see it when everything is done.”
City council member James Taylor said it is time to unveil the picturesque scene, not only to those in the community, but to the world.
“This is one of the best kept secrets in our community,” Taylor said. “As a native of Winston-Salem, it means a lot to me to be able to unlock this hidden treasure for the citizens.”
The first phase of construction is expected to be completed by early 2017. Phase two will include recreation areas and an amphitheater, but the city does not yet have funds in place for those projects.
Director of Parks and Recreation Tim Grant said the site of the future park is a jewel that city officials plan to turn into a diamond.
