Pine Fork Park opens gates to public in New Kent County

By Robb Johnson | July 16, 2021 3:10 pm

A building housing restrooms and the concession stand highlights one of the many amenities at Pine Fork Park.

Robb Johnson photo

A New Kent project that has been more than eight years in the making finally opened up to the public in what is the opening phase of what is set to be an attraction for both locals and outside guests.

County officials were on hand as part of the July 14 grand opening of Pine Fork Park in New Kent. Located at 64 Pine Fork Road in Quinton, the facility is expected to open in multiple phases over the next few years.

Talks of a new park started in 2013 when New Kent supervisors agreed to swap land with Southwest Holdings. In 2014, New Kent’s Planning Commission provided high praise on the proposed project that would cover 55 acres of land.

New Kent Parks and Recreation director Kim Turner launched a campaign for feedback on what constituents wanted to have in the park as well as provide an ambiance and atmosphere to attract possible sporting tournaments. In 2015, county leaders signed off on the conceptual plan that included a one-mile trail, outdoor playground areas, athletic fields, and restroom facilities.

As 2018 rolled around, dialogue for Pine Fork Park focused on financing the $4.38 million project. During the FY2018-19 budgeting session, county representatives approved $3 million in debt services for the construction of the facility.

Groundbreaking for the park took place on July 31, 2019, but the project didn’t come without its hiccups. The COVID-19 pandemic did no favors as workers were limited onsite and material deliveries were delayed. In Oct. 2020, $325,591 was transferred to assist with environmental issues to finish the project. Less than three months later, another $111,553 was needed due to a shortfall and additional requirements to address drainage issues that were required by DEQ (Department of Environment Quality) to be fixed prior to the park’s opening.

With all the hiccups out the way, Turner spoke at the ribbon cutting ceremony about the hopes for the park. With a variety of athletic fields and a dog park, the hope is that the opening phase will be the spark that inspires families to return to active lives and a sense of normalcy through a number of options that will be offered at Pine Fork Park.