Latest News
There is lot going on this spring:
Opening of the new Bathroom at the Park: The City has installed the new bathroom building near the play area. It should be opening in late March. It is designed with all the fixtures set in the walls so it should be fairly vandal-proof and easy to clean. Hopefully this will make conversion of the old bath house into a pavilion easier.
Historic District Application: An application is in the works to expand the existing Old North Durham Historic district to include Duke Park. See the article inside for what this would mean. The DP contribution would be about $4,000. We are looking for 20-30 homeowners to agree to kick in $100 (or more) each. The application deadline is in April so if you are interested please contact me right away. 919-683-1900 or readlaw@aol.com.
Duke Park Outbuildings: Across from the 1600 block of Acadia Street is a set of buildings that have been used as a parking and maintenance yard by the City Department of Parks & Rec. P&R has moved out to newer and big- ger facilities. DPNA and DPPI, the 501(c)(3) organization, have offered to lease them from the City for $1 a year with the hope that they could become a long-term home for outdoor recreation groups. If you know of a group that might be interested please contact the Board.
Bathhouse Pavilion Remodel: Pushing off from an idea floated by Joel Reitzer, an architect who is head of City General Services, DPNA asked the City Council at Coffee with Council in February to fund the remodel of the old Bath house into an open air pavilion. It appears the Council is interested in the idea. If you see your council members around remind them to “Fund the Duke Park Bath House.”
Elections: Don’t forget that this is an election year. State legislative races are happening as well as US Congress and the battle for the Kay Hagan seat in the Senate. Locally it looks like the hottest race will be for Durham DA. Be sure that you are registered and that you get out and vote. Early voting begins April 24, primary is May 6.