New changes coming to Greenville’s Town Common

GREENVILLE, N.C. (WITN) - Big changes are coming to Greenville’s Town Common.

A $20 million improvement project is set to begin this summer, and it promises to bring both critical infrastructure upgrades and exciting new amenities.

The heart of the project is replacing the aging steel bulkhead that protects the park from the Tar River, but that’s just the beginning.

The $20 million project includes replacing 1,600 feet of steel bulkhead that separates the park from the Tar River. City leaders say the current structure is overstressed and beyond its serviceable life, making it a top priority. But visitors will notice more than just behind-the-scenes improvements. The plan includes a new multi-use trail, riverfront plazas, an overlook, and rain gardens that will help treat stormwater and enhance sustainability. According to City projects and development manager Mark Nottingham, the focus of the project is the bulkhead.

“This will enhance visitors’ experience when coming to the Town Common, the bulkhead will serve as important infrastructure to protect the park and make it resilient during flooding events,” Nottingham said.

Crews are expected to break ground in June, with construction lasting roughly 400 days. While some areas of the park will be off-limits during that time, many popular events will be moved to Wildwood Park to keep community traditions going. The enhancements also include better access to the amphitheater for performances and a 160-foot floating dock to welcome more boaters.

Funding includes $5 million from the state, with the rest financed by the city. Officials say maintenance costs should stay about the same despite the upgrades. Public engagement sessions helped shape some of the final designs.