In the 1990 Urban Design Plan (UDP), initiated and partially funded by Swiss Bear, redevelopment of the park was one of four major priority projects. LDR International’s plan called for construction of a new bulkhead, promenade, railing, relocation of the parking to the northern edge of the property and relocation of the masonry Woman’s Club building to the center of the park. In 1992, the City hired Allison Platt & Associates to prepare development plans and drawings so they could move forward with redevelopment plans. The final modified plan called for bulk heading, railing and walkway around the perimeter, relocation of the boat ramps to the northern edge, relocating the Women’s to the center of the park and replacing the asphalt parking lot and drive-way with lawn, lighting and trees. The northern section (old Texaco property) was under construction with bathroom facilities and a stage.
The future of the Woman’s Club building became a controversial topic and stalled the project. Charlie Kimbrell, former mayor, alderman and director of public works, feared relocation of the building would destroy the structure and its historic value. He felt the building needed to be restored where it stood (estimated cost $100,000) and spearheaded a petition coalition to “Promote Preservation, Restoration and Utilization of the Woman’s Club Building”. Swiss Bear explored the cost to relocate the structure which was estimated at $40,000. At the March 24th, 1993 Board of Aldermen meeting, the Board agreed to apply for a $5,000 grant to determine the feasibility of relocating the building. The controversy became a sore point between Charlie Kimbrell and the City and came to a head as the City worked to finalize redevelopment plans. The Aldermen assured Kimbrell they had no intention of demolishing the building. When the Board of Aldermen studied the feasibility of relocating the building, cost of relocation and renovation to meet code requirements, they determined the cost was prohibitive and approved demolition of the building and solicited bids for Phase I improvements (new bulkhead, promenade and railing).
When Phase I estimates twice the estimate obtained several years before, the City considered putting the project on hold. Understanding redevelopment of the park was critical to the revitalization effort, Swiss Bear initiated a campaign, Put Your Mark of the Park with the goal of raising $250,000 to assist the city with that effort. The public was invited to purchase bricks, pavers, benches, rails, street lights and pavers, engraved with contributor’s names or the names of loved ones. The original goal of $250,000 was surpassed by $100,000. The city responded to the community’s generosity and support by moving forward with Phase II, investing more than $1.6 million in the project.
In the mid-2000’s, the Gazebo was constructed with funds from the New Bern Women’s Club, area businesses and the City in tribute to the House the Depression Built.
The redevelopment of Union Park, once again a community effort, boosted the morale of the city and enhanced the revitalization of downtown and redevelopment of the waterfront. This beautiful park, at the confluence of two rivers, attracts hundreds of people on a daily basis, is a place for community activities, parties, concerts, picnics, festivals, reunions and family gatherings.
Susan Moffat Thomas
Executive Director
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| Union Point Park - Present |
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| Union Point Park Gazebo - Present |
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| New promenade - After renovation |
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| New promenade - after renovation |
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| 1990 Urban Design Plan Concept |
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| Union Point Park - early 1990's |
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