A place to build friendship. That's the purpose of the future Highland Avenue Park located at the corner of Fifth Street and Highland Avenue near downtown Winston-Salem.

The $1.6 million investment will be built using a portion of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) grant funding awarded to Forsyth County.

County Commissioner Tonya McDaniel says her vision for this new green space is to foster health, connection, and confidence.

"It [the park] will enhance friendships by creating space where people can gather, socialize, and enjoy each other's company," McDaniel said. "It will provide a sense of connection."

The park will also have a small restroom facility and food truck access nearby. | Rendering by Blum Construction + Stich Design via Forsyth County Parks & Recreation

The 1.25-acre piece of land is located at the edge of the Forsyth County Health and Human Services Campus and just blocks away from the Malloy/Jordan East Winston Heritage Center library branch, making it a prime space for the community to enjoy the outdoors.

The park will feature a few amenities:

A basketball half-court + a pickleball court
An open grass play area
A picnic table + an outdoor grill
~1/4 mile walkway
Play features will include a standard swing set, a sensory climbing dome, an all-inclusive accessible merry-go-round and swing. The park is expected to be completed in early 2025.