Cornelius Launches Updates on Bond Projects
Rendering of the new field at JV Washam Park
The Town of Cornelius Parks and Recreation Department has launched a new quarterly update feature on its website to keep residents informed about progress on projects funded through the 2024 Park Bonds Referendum.
Town officials said quarterly updates will provide residents with ongoing information as projects funded through the parks bonds move from planning into construction.
Voters approved the $20 million parks bond referendum in 2024, providing funding for land acquisition, park improvements and new recreational facilities. In January 2026, the Town Board approved a $430,000 budget amendment to support preliminary planning, design, environmental reviews, surveying, permitting and other costs needed to prepare projects for the anticipated first bond sale of $9.94 million in early 2027.
The bonds must be issued over time to comply with debt ratio laws governing the town.
According to the town’s August 2026 update, several projects have advanced.
Land acquisition and open space preservation
The town has acquired lots of 36 acres and 37 acres on Bailey Road, bringing the total acquired land to 73 acres for the future large park site. The acquisitions are intended to preserve land for future parks and recreation opportunities.
Bailey Road Park Court Complex
The town has hired Dewberry to design a planned restroom building and shade structures as part of the Bailey Road Park court complex. Construction is planned after the first bond sale in early 2027.
J.V. Washam Park improvements
The town is in the process of hiring a designer and a consultant contract is expected to go before the Town Board for approval in August or September. Design work is expected to be completed shortly after the first bond sale, with construction scheduled to begin in early summer after the conclusion of the 2026-27 school year.
Stratford Forest Greenway
The Town is working with Mecklenburg County to construct the Stratford Forest Greenway connection. Environmental studies are currently underway to determine the crossing location over McDowell Creek.
