With the first phase of development at Belews Lake Park nearing completion, Forsyth County is applying for a state grant to fund the next phase of construction.
The $500,000 grant from the North Carolina Parks and Recreation Trust Fund would pay for an additional 20 to 22 acres of development of the 216-acre park. The county is already in the process of developing a similarly sized portion of the park, and officials say that part of the project is about 85% finished.
Chris Weavil, director of Forsyth County’s Parks and Recreation department, says it includes an accessible fishing dock, picnic shelters, and a nature trail along the lake.
“You got kind of pines on one side of you, and then you're in the hardwoods," he says. "It's a very pretty sight. All sorts of birds and of course, lots of people too as the summertime goes along, as the lake gets a little bit busier. It's a very neat place and it gives people access to Belews Lake that they’ve not had in the past.”
The park was originally set to open in early spring, but Weavil says weather delayed construction slightly. It’s now slated to welcome visitors this summer.
Construction on the second phase of development could begin as early as 2025, if the county is selected to receive the grant funding.