This ambitious project serves dual purposes: combating declining school enrollment by enhancing quality of life, and creating intergenerational gathering spaces. “In conjunction with recreation, what we’re expecting this to do is to maybe even turn our pupil count and our public school system’s numbers around where they may be on increase. I know we’re seeing really across the state and even nation, we’re seeing numbers dwindle in the public school system. So we want to try to get that number back up, and we think that we can contribute that from an athletic side by offering after-school type activities in close proximity to our K-12 school,” Smith explains. “We can have senior citizens come out, get some fresh air while also facilitating exercise opportunities,” Smith adds. The design intentionally bridges age groups, from youth sports programs to senior fitness activities, while supporting the county’s growing ecotourism appeal. With sewer system upgrades underway to support the complex, the recreation hub represents Jones County’s commitment to building healthy communities for all residents. STEERING CHANGE WHILE STAYING TRUE Jones County’s leadership demonstrates a clear vision for navigating the challenges of rural development. Smith emphasizes adaptability as crucial for progress, “It’s important that we stay ahead of the curve, if you don’t, you’re going to get left behind.” His approach balances innovation, from AI preparedness to broadband expansion with essential services like new EMS substations to improve emergency response times. Bender highlights how collaboration fuels growth, crediting networking for successes like the Trenton shell building project.“Leaning on my counterparts in other counties... completely opened my eyes and opened up this county to so many more opportunities,” he reflects. 169 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 05 JONES COUNTY, NC
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTI5MjAx