Mills Park Community Center - A modern building with extensive glass windows and wooden elements is surrounded by lush greenery. In front, colorful letters spell out "MILLS PARK" along the pathway where people are walking.
Mills Park Community Center
August 2, 2023
Asian Garden - Cary Bond '24 Community Project - A serene Japanese garden features a curved wooden bridge over a calm pond. Vibrant autumn foliage in red, orange, and green is reflected in the water. Large rocks and a traditional stone lantern add to the tranquil and picturesque scene.
Asian Garden Master Plan
June 25, 2024

Nature Park Master Plan

The image shows a serene outdoor setting in a forested area, featuring a small group of children and adults enjoying nature. The scene includes geodesic dome tents in the background, nestled among trees and shrubs. In the foreground, children are playing on a wooden platform near a gentle stream, with some of them wading in the water, supervised by adults. The atmosphere is peaceful, capturing a blend of outdoor adventure and relaxation in a natural environment.

Overview

Since its acquisition in 2020, this 217-acre forthcoming park has been envisioned to provide visitors with an immersive experience while preserving precious open space and natural elements. With a budget of $10 million, the project is slated to develop a Master Plan and, as funding allows, incorporate a few basic essential amenities such as hiking trails, restrooms, and parking. Additionally, there are considerations to potentially stabilize the historic home site nestled within the park’s boundaries.

Anticipated Project Schedule if Funded

About 2-3 years once funding is allocated, including master planning, design, bidding, construction, and opening.

Project History

As Cary’s population continues to grow, the demand for ample parkland and open space has become increasingly evident. In response, the Council allocated a budget from the 2019 Shaping Cary’s Tomorrow bonds specifically for the purpose of preserving open space within Cary.

Earnest Jones Park Master Plan - Cary Bond '24

In August 2020, Cary purchased 217.07 acres of former farmland along Earnest Jones Road in Chatham County. Concept plans were created in 2022 to explore the feasibility of the site for active recreation, preservation of the site natural features, and using the rolling topography and stream corridors for an immersive outdoor experience. 

Furthermore, the acquisition and planning of these properties serve as tangible steps towards fulfilling objectives outlined in the 2012 PRCR Master Plan. By protecting ecologically significant areas and expanding heritage programming, Cary is actively working to enhance the quality of life for its residents.

Parks and Recreation Bond

Other Projects

August 2, 2023

Mills Park Community Center

A $150 million multi-purpose center in western Cary designed to cater to the needs and interests of people of all ages and backgrounds. The vision is for a community center that provides a wide range of facilities and programs, and includes access to basketball courts, senior activities, an indoor playground, multi-use classrooms plus ceramic studio, aerobic gyms, space for fitness and weight training, plus a walking track.