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Each spring I’m reminded just how fortunate we are to live in a city that never stops blooming—whether it’s the azaleas in our parks, the new businesses along our corridors, or the partnerships that help us meet every challenge with creativity and care.
On Wednesday, May 21, at 6:30 p.m., city staff will gather at the Dorothy D. Gilmore Adaptive Recreation Center for our next Fayetteville OutFront meeting. These sessions are more than presentations; they’re conversations that put residents face-to-face with city leadership to answer the questions which are in our community. Much of what we celebrate begins with residents raising their hands—asking tough questions and sharing ideas that shaped final designs.
The splash pad where your kids cool off, the roadway that gets you home faster, the drainage project protecting your neighborhood—none of it happens without your engagement. Because of the $35 million Parks & Recreation bond you approved in 2016, we now enjoy splash pads across the city, modernized centers, and the Rowan Street Skateboard Park—amenities that make Fayetteville a place where families choose to put down roots. Your confidence in 2022—when voters passed a $97 million General Obligation bond—is already paying dividends in stronger public-safety facilities, safer streets, and expanded housing opportunities. We want to tell you all about them and let you ask questions. So, consider this an invitation: come out Wednesday to see how far we’ve come.
We’re also tackling one of Fayetteville’s most persistent concerns: flooding. More than $70 million in stormwater projects are now in design, aimed at protecting homes and businesses while restoring our natural waterways.
At Wednesday night’s OutFront, teams will also preview how to track each project’s progress on our new public dashboard at FayettevilleNC.gov/Projects. Your questions and ideas keep us accountable—and help us improve.
If you’re looking for something this weekend, check out Distinctly Fayetteville’s Calendar of Events! Saturday is bustling with the AsONE Prayer Walk & Unity Fest begins the morning in reflection and solidarity. Kayaking 101 kicks off National Safe Boating Week and invites beginners onto calm waters for a new perspective on Fayetteville’s natural beauty. Entrepreneurs can swap ideas at the Small Business Networking Event while families can explore downtown through a Self-Care Scavenger Hunt that turns wellness into adventure. If sports are more appealing, Tuesday is “Tacos & Tallboys,” while Wednesday is “Greek Night” at Segra Stadium for classic Carolina fun under the lights. So much more on their calendar to check out!
Every one of these gatherings is powered by volunteers, small businesses, and civic partners who believe, as I do, that Fayetteville’s greatest strength is its people. When you show up to walk, paddle, pray, learn, or simply cheer from the stands, you affirm that Fayetteville is a great place to work, live and recreate…and for that, I thank you!
Best,
Douglas J. Hewett
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