Construction has officially begun at Cherokee Lake Park. The project was started last summer and will include repairs to the spillway dam and a widened trail on the west side, among other repairs and enhancements. The project will also connect the park’s walking paths to the 15-mile Community Trail, which will ultimately connect all city parks and neighborhoods.
Portions of the park are currently closed to protect the public. Walking trails on the east side of the lake, including the picnic pavilions and playground area, remain open.
“While we understand that the construction is an inconvenience for park lovers, we are confident that the finished product will be worth the wait,” said Lauren Radford, Community Engagement and Outreach Director. “We ask for our community’s continued patience as we work to bring them a better greenspace for their enjoyment.”
Evidence of these improvements can already be seen at the lake as crews are diligently working to resurface all wooden docks and bridges. Repairs to the back slope of the dam along Smith Avenue will begin this week along with some tree and sidewalk removal around the lake. A temporary road from Reid Street into the park is being constructed to accommodate the heavy equipment necessary to dredge the lake and repair the dam.
“We are actively working with the contractor, the Thomasville Police Department, the Thomasville Housing Authority, and area residents to build awareness and promote safety along Reid Street during this time of increased construction traffic,” says Radford. “We ask our community to be mindful when traveling though this area because large equipment will access the park from the Reid Street entrance.”
The project has, unfortunately, fallen behind schedule due to unforeseen delays in permitting and material procurement. “We are disappointed that our timeline has been extended, as we know our community dearly loves Cherokee Park and is anxious to have full access returned,” said Radford. “The delays are, unfortunately, outside of our control. Therefore, construction is now scheduled to be completed this summer.”
Radford said that there is some good news to share regarding the project. “We’ve listened to the feedback from our community and will be improving the restroom facility at Cherokee Park and our other parks as well,” she said. “Knowing these facilities will be returned in a much better condition will, hopefully, make the wait a little more tolerable.”
Citizens can stay up-to-date with the project’s progress by visiting the Current Project section of Thomasville.org. For more information, contact Radford at 227-4015.