Get ready, Rutherford County!
Our community is buzzing with exciting new developments that are set to transform the way we live, work, and play. From brand new sports facilities to cultural spaces, these projects showcase our community’s commitment to growth and innovation.
While these infrastructure projects are reshaping our physical landscape, they tell only part of our story. Rutherford County’s non-profit organizations are working tirelessly behind the scenes, creating meaningful change through innovative programs and initiatives.
Their dedication to addressing crucial community needs – from food security to youth development, healthcare access to economic opportunity – forms the backbone of our county’s holistic growth. Be sure to check out our upcoming feature, where we’ll spotlight some of these organizations and their vital work.
For now, let’s take a closer look at the exciting physical transformations coming our way:
1. Park Square Depot: A New Heart for Forest City
Imagine a vibrant community hub where local farmers, food enthusiasts, and neighbors can gather year-round. That’s exactly what’s coming to Forest City with the Park Square Depot. Located right along the Thermal Belt Rail Trail at Oak Street and Park Square, this multi-purpose pavilion will become the permanent home of the Rutherford County Farmers Market. The best part? It’ll feature a commercial-grade community kitchen for food demos and prep. Thanks to generous funding from RHI Legacy Foundation, Meta, and the Carolina Foothills Foundation, this project is set to become a cornerstone of our local food scene.
2. Legacy Soccer Park: A Game-Changer for Local Sports
Soccer fans, rejoice! A massive 57-acre complex is taking shape at 520 Piney Ridge Road in Forest City. We’re talking about a championship-grade artificial turf field, five natural turf fields, and two mini urban soccer pitches. As the future home of the Rutherford County Soccer Association, it’ll support over 600 young athletes. This dream is becoming reality thanks to funding from the RHI Legacy Foundation, the State of North Carolina, and our Tourism Development Authority.
3. Colfax Cotton Gin Park: Preserving Our Heritage
Ellenboro’s Main Street is getting a fascinating makeover as the historic Colfax Cotton Gin site transforms into a community gathering space. Picture this: a tailgate market, pavilion, stage, playground, walking path, plus public art and educational displays that tell the story of our textile heritage. The Town of Ellenboro purchased the site in 2020, and with $650,000 in funding secured so far, they’re working on designs and seeking additional support for construction.
4. North Slope Skate and Ride: Thrills Coming to Spindale
Summer 2025 can’t come soon enough! Spindale is getting an awesome recreational facility near the Methodist Church and Thermal Belt Rail Trail. Skaters will love the concrete park with its bowl, quarter-pipes, rails, and ledges, while cyclists can test their skills on a Velosolutions asphalt pump track. They’re adding all the essentials too – a picnic shelter, restrooms, bike racks, and a public plaza. Construction kicked off in September 2024, backed by impressive support from multiple local organizations.
5. Norris Park Disc Golf: Two Courses for All Skill Levels
Rutherfordton’s Norris Park is about to become a disc golf destination. The plans include an 18-hole championship course (par 66) with options for both advanced and intermediate players, plus a 21-hole beginner-friendly par 3 course. You’ll also find natural surface trails, picnic areas, restrooms, and lighting. Construction should start by early 2024, with an expected opening in fall 2025.
6. The Factory at KidSenses Museum: Inspiring Young Innovators
Downtown Rutherfordton’s beloved KidSenses Children’s Interactive Museum is growing! A new expansion, The Factory will cater to kids 11 and up, featuring cutting-edge technology like laser cutters, 3D printers, and CNC robots. It’s all about hands-on learning and unleashing creativity. Since opening in 2004, KidSenses has welcomed over half a million visitors to explore its interactive exhibits and Children’s Garden.
7. Broad River Paddle Trail: Adventure on the Water
Calling all paddlers! A 40-mile water trail is taking shape along the Broad River, stretching through Rutherford and Cleveland Counties. With 11 planned access points starting below Lake Lure, the trail will make it easier than ever to enjoy our beautiful waterway. Two access points in Rutherfordton are already set up with paved parking and proper launch facilities.
NOTE: The Broad River Paddle Trail is currently closed due to Hurricane Helene as recovery efforts are ongoing.
8. The Symphony of Rutherford County: A New Home for Music
Our community orchestra is getting a permanent home! The Symphony is renovating a historic 2,500-square-foot school building in Rutherfordton, with plans to move in by July 2025. From its humble beginnings as a 15-member ensemble in 1988, the orchestra has grown to about 50 volunteers who perform multiple concerts annually, including free shows for local schools.
9. Thermal Belt Rail Trail: Getting Even Better
Our popular 13.58-mile trail is leveling up with new art installations, gateway features, landscaping, and pocket parks. There’s even talk of extending it another 6.4 miles to Ellenboro! Meanwhile, Spindale is working on connecting its Main Street to the trail with wider sidewalks, custom bike racks, benches, and better lighting.
10. Lake Lure Morse Park: Access for Everyone
Recent improvements at 2926 Memorial Highway have made Morse Park more welcoming than ever, with accessible paths, a universal design playground, and picnic areas that everyone can enjoy. Looking ahead, plans include expanded parking, a new marina, and a visitor center with a restaurant overlooking the lake.
NOTE: Morse Park is currently closed due to Hurricane Helene as recovery efforts are ongoing.
11. Chimney Rock Village: A Fresh Face for Main Street
Phase 2 of Chimney Rock’s makeover was originally set for completion around November 2024 – with a vision to make our beloved tourist destination even more charming and accessible. Due to the devastation of Hurricane Helene, Chimney Rock Village is currently closed as the community works to recover.
We’ll share more updates as they become available.
These projects represent more than just new buildings and facilities – they’re investments in our community’s future, creating spaces where we can gather, play, learn, and grow together. They build upon Rutherford County’s impressive track record of successful community development.
Want to see how far we’ve already come? Check out Rutherford Bound’s list of four exciting improvements completed in just the last few years. Together, these completed and upcoming projects are writing the next chapter in our county’s story!