Jefferson’s Foster-Tyson Park has recently been awarded $235,175 from the North Carolina Parks and Recreation Trust Fund (PARTF), a move announced by the Blue Ridge Conservancy (BRC) and the Town of Jefferson. Located on E Main Street, just east of downtown Jefferson, Foster-Tyson Park has been identified as the ideal site for the Jefferson trailhead of the Northern Peaks State Trail (NPST). The park is also recognized as a valuable community asset, centrally located and well-suited for residents of all ages to engage in outdoor activities and utilize its paved path.
Mayor Peter Eller noted that Foster-Tyson Park, long a valuable asset to Jefferson, is poised for significant enhancement. He highlighted that the grant will provide restroom facilities, an updated park shelter, and substantial improvements for daily park users, also establishing Jefferson as a direct gateway to the Northern Peaks State Trail. Eller expressed gratitude to PARTF, Blue Ridge Conservancy, Town Manager Charity Curtis, and all involved in the project.
Years of planning and public engagement revealed the community's primary needs at the park: ADA-compliant restrooms, as none currently exist on site, and improved covered areas for picnicking, recreation, and gathering. The planned project will encompass a double restroom facility with an adjoining picnic pavilion, an additional recreational pavilion, small-scale play equipment, picnic tables, new signage, and parking improvements. The Town of Jefferson will contribute matching funds to the project.
Town Manager Charity Curtis described the award as an "exciting milestone" for Jefferson, noting that the project directly addresses residents' stated desire for a safe and accessible gathering place within the park. Curtis also emphasized the tremendous opportunity for the community in being chosen as the Jefferson trailhead for the Northern Peaks State Trail. She acknowledged the partnership with Blue Ridge Conservancy and the support of Northern Peaks State Trail Director Jordan Sellers throughout the process, along with PARTF's investment, which she believes will benefit the community for decades.
Jordan Sellers, Northern Peaks State Trail Director, explained that a key aspect of her work involves assisting corridor partners in utilizing the trail and BRC's support to meet community needs. Sellers described the planned restrooms and enhanced access at Foster-Tyson Park as a crucial upgrade for a park widely cherished by Jefferson residents. She conveyed appreciation for the collaboration with the Town of Jefferson and the support received from PARTF and elected officials at both local and state levels, anticipating the project's completion.
The award to Foster-Tyson Park was part of Governor Josh Stein's announcement of nearly $10 million in Parks and Recreation Trust Fund grants distributed statewide. The Blue Ridge Conservancy serves as the nonprofit partner for the Northern Peaks State Trail, an initiative aimed at connecting Boone to the Jeffersons through the Amphibolite Mountains of Ashe and Watauga Counties.
