City council plans park in downtown

Published 12:44 pm Tuesday, February 14, 2023

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The City of Greenville is purchasing the property located at the corner of Bolling and Milner Streets in downtown Greenville.

The property was formerly the home of Dino’s BBQ and a gas station, but has been vacant for several years.

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It is currently owned by James and Irene E. Crittenden.

The City Clerk-Treasurer, Dee Blackmon, was authorized to make the payment of $60,000 to purchase the property, as soon as a clear land title and deed became available.

Greenville Mayor Dexter McLendon, along with city council members, said they plan on having the existing buildings demolished and removed in order to create a city park and parking area on the western side of downtown.

“I don’t plan on the park having a name,” McLendon said.

Currently, there is no definite time-line as to when this work will begin, although the Mayor’s office is looking at the same time-line for this project as Dewberry’s Steakhouse.

“The plans are moving in the timeline we have now,” McLendon said.

Everyone has to work within the confines of the economy and the available workforce. Everything’s still on go.”

The city isn’t sure yet whether the park will contain a playground or become an entertainment venue..

“Hopefully, we could have entertainment there,” McLendon said.

Once the lot is cleared, McLendon said they will know more regarding the council’s options.

“You just have to take your time and do what you can,” McLendon said.

The park will be directly across the street from the Save-A-Child Center on Bolling St.

Gloria Moorer Johnson, the Director of the Center, believes the park will be an asset for the community.

“I believe learning takes place inside and outside of the classroom,” Johnson said.

She looks forward to using the park with her students.

“I welcome the city bringing this park to us,” Johnson said. “I have a positive outlook.”

It was McLendon’s idea several years ago to turn this space into a useful asset for the city of Greenville.

The Mayor said he is always looking for ideas in surrounding cities that can be implemented and benefit the city of Greenville.