Ezell Park, a massive $8.5 million Mecklenburg County park, will open in Mint Hill later this year.
Why it matters: People are flocking to the towns around Charlotte where they can enjoy proximity to the city’s amenities with a small-town vibe.
Context: While a community garden has existed on the site for some time, much of the project will feature new amenities, a Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation spokesperson tells Axios.
- Improvements to the garden are part of the current project.
What to expect: Roughly 30 acres of the 91-acre site will be developed to preserve its agrarian character, according to the spokesperson. Park amenities for the first phase of the project include:
- Four pickleball courts
- Splash pad
- Basketball court
- Nature-themed playground
- Restrooms
- Open play field
- Trails and multi-use paths
- Public art
- Parking
What we’re watching: The park master plan also features an indoor pavilion and nature surface trails, plus an expanded community garden or other nature amenity on the west side of the park. These could be added in the future.
Zoom out: This will be Mecklenburg County’s first regional park in Mint Hill. The Town of Mint Hill operates a few other parks.
- Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation currently operates Stevens Creek Nature Preserve and Nature Center and Mayerling Drive Park in Mint Hill.
What’s next: Construction on Ezell Park is expected to be completed in September or October of this year, the county spokesperson tells Axios. It’s expected to open to the public by the end of the year. The splash pad will operate seasonally beginning in May 2026…