North Carolina Construction News staff writer
Mecklenburg County marked the start of a new chapter for Eastland last week with a groundbreaking for the 4.5-acre Eastland Park. Construction is underway and the park is expected to be completed by spring 2027.
The project follows months of community engagement and planning to ensure the park reflects local needs, honors the history of Eastland, and connects to the nearby Eastland Yards mixed-use development. Local leaders and residents joined the celebration of the new park.
“Today is actually about restoration, it’s about community building, because for far too long, residents of this community have worked to have this site redeveloped,” said Mecklenburg Board of County Commissioners Chair Mark Jerrell. “This park will not only resuscitate this area, it will also serve as an oasis for various generations to appreciate and enjoy. Eastland Park will be a space of pride, wellness, social connection and well-being.”
At the heart of the park, a sprayground will feature Eastland’s iconic rising sun logo, originally designed by Alfred Kloke for Eastland Mall in the 1970s. The logo has become emblematic of Eastland and east Charlotte. Nick Walker, director of Parks and Recreation, called the logo a “beautiful tribute to the site’s past and a symbol of renewal.”
Other planned amenities include a playground, terraced and artificial turf lawns, walking trails, covered picnic and performance areas, a court for basketball, futsal and hockey, a fenced dog lounge, seating, landscaping, and restrooms.
“Today is as much about Eastland Park as it is about collaborative placemaking and improving the quality of life for Mecklenburg County residents,” said Mecklenburg County Manager Mike Bryant.