Lumberton Approves $1.9M Loan for Pennington Complex Expansion
Phase III expansion is expected to include two soccer fields, a splash pad, a walking trail, a concession and bathroom facility, and a parking lot.
Lumberton City Council voted Monday to authorize a $1.9 million financing agreement with Truist Bank for the next phase of the Dr. Raymond B. Pennington Athletic Complex. Hank Lewis, the finance director, contacted four lending institutions and received proposals from all four. Truist offered the lowest interest rate with a 14-year amortization term.
The loan agreement awaits application through the local government commission. Phase III expansion is expected to include two soccer fields, a splash pad, a walking trail, a concession and bathroom facility, and a parking lot.
This project has also received $400,000 from the N.C. Parks and Recreation Trust Fund, $500,000 from the Lumberton Tourism Development Authority, and $25,000 from the Friends of Recreation. Future phases could include adding fields, courts, a disc golf course, more walking trails, and potentially a skate park.
"I think that's very good that we're getting that park finished up, and I'm sure that'll be a big addition," said Mayor Bruce Davis, per The Robesonian. The park spans 150 acres, making it the largest in town.
Council also approved three paid holidays for staff on Dec. 24, 25, and 26 for Christmas. The ordinance allows closure on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and any additional days that the state and county both designate as paid holidays.
The board allocated Community Revitalization Funds to several Christmas causes. These included $2,200 for a Christmas Toy Drive in Precinct 2, $1,600 for a Toy Drive in Precinct 6, and $1,350 for the Sharing and Caring Holiday Program sponsored by former Rep. Charles Graham.
Other allocations went to Christmas Toyz 4 Kidz in Precinct 5, East Robeson Primary School's Family Night Bingo Fundraiser, and the Empty Stocking Fund by The Robesonian and Robeson County Department of Social Services.
