Rowan County park known for animals, nature center lands $450,000 state grant for renovations

SALISBURY, N.C (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — A prominent Rowan County attraction landed nearly a half-million dollars in state money for renovations.

The bathhouse at Dan Nicholas Park will be renovated through a $450,000 Accessible Parks Grant, according to the Rowan County Parks and Recreation Department. This grant, which was the second highest-scoring application in its batch, will significantly enhance the park’s accessibility for individuals with disabilities.

Gov. Roy Cooper announced $17.9 million in grants to fund 46 parks and recreation projects across North Carolina through the Parks and Recreation Trust Fund (PARTF). The state’s Parks and Recreation Authority approved these grants at their meeting on Aug. 23.

“These awards through the Parks and Recreation Trust Fund and the Accessible Parks Grant will bring tremendous impact to communities across North Carolina by providing more parks, more trails, and more accessible recreation,” Cooper said in a press release.

The renovation of the bathhouse at Dan Nicholas Park will include modernizing the facilities to ensure they are fully accessible and meet the needs of all visitors. This project is part of Rowan County’s ongoing commitment to providing inclusive and accessible recreational opportunities for all residents and visitors.

“We are incredibly grateful to receive this $450,000 Accessible Parks Grant for the renovation of the bathhouse at Dan Nicholas Park,” said Rowan County Parks and Recreation Director Don Bringle. “By modernizing our facilities, we are taking a significant step towards ensuring that everyone, regardless of their abilities, can fully enjoy the beauty and recreational opportunities our park has to offer. This project underscores our commitment to accessibility and community well-being.”

Dan Nicholas Park, on Bringle Ferry Road east of Salisbury, is home to a campground, lake, carousel, train, gem mine, aquarium and nature center, animal habitats and more.

The bathhouse renovation is expected to be completed by the end of next year, providing a more inclusive and enjoyable experience for all park visitors.

The Accessible Parks Grant program, which appropriated $12.5 million in the 2023 budget, aims to provide matching grants for local parks and recreation projects that benefit people living with disabilities.

Last year, facilities in China Grove and Spencer received more than $800,000 in the PARTF grants.

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