MONCURE, NC— On April 29, 2026, Chatham County took an important next step in the development of Parker’s Ridge Park, by breaking ground on the new community park that will serve southeastern Chatham County.

Due to rain, the ceremony took place at the Moncure Fire Station.
Chatham County leadership, Chatham County Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources, members of the Atlas and Lola Tart Parker family, Stewart Design, and Blum Construction were all present.

Parker’s Ridge Park is named in honor of Atlas and Lola Tart Parker, whose family farmed the land for more than 70 years. “We love the community, and all of my brothers and sisters have put a part into this park, and had a part in the farm, and my dad would be proud,” said Hilda Nelson, daughter of Atlas and Lola Tart Parker.

In September 2011, the Parker family sold approximately 138 acres to Chatham County at a reduced cost to support park development. In December 2019, the Chatham County Board of Commissioners formally adopted the name Parker’s Ridge Park, reflecting both the family’s legacy and the park’s location on Pea Ridge Road.

“As we break ground on Parker’s Ridge Park, we’re investing in both the future of southeastern Chatham County and the legacy of the families who shaped this land,” said Amanda Robertson, Chatham County Board of Commissioners Chair. “This park reflects our commitment to thoughtful growth—creating inclusive, high-quality spaces where residents can gather and connect while preserving the rural character that makes this community so special. We are grateful to the Parker family for their generosity and to everyone who helped bring this vision to life.”

Since acquiring the property, the County has completed two master planning efforts shaped by extensive community input.

“As we move forward, we’ve been very intentional about honoring what makes this place special,” said Tracy Burnett, Chatham County Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources Director. “The goal has never been to change the character of the land, but to build on it – to create a space where people can gather, play, reflect, and connect with nature, while still preserving the rural beauty that defines this part of Chatham County.”
Parker’s Ridge Park is located at 994 Pea Ridge Road in New Hill, between US 1 and Old US 1.

The park will serve southeastern Chatham County, including the Moncure area and residents on both sides of Jordan Lake. The site was selected to meet the need for parkland in this part of the county while preserving its rural character.
Phase I amenities will include the County’s first pump track and inclusive playground, a restroom and picnic shelter with an observation deck, and a walking trail around the pond.
Construction is scheduled to begin in late spring 2026. The park is expected to be completed in summer 2027.

Chatham County would like to extend sincere gratitude to many partners who have been instrumental in this project including Blum Construction, Stewart, Katherine Hogan Architects, NV5, Freese and Nichols, and Barrs Recreation.
Residents may visit www.chathamcountync.gov/parks-rec for more information.