Thanks to a shared vision by the Cheraw Town Council and the Cheraw State Park, local residents will soon enjoy more improvements at the state park.

Following a $5,000 request to town council at its June meeting by Park Manager Mark Davies, council voted in favor of the request, which according to Davies will “go a long ways” to provide a number of necessary amenities. Davies and his staff have recently reopened the swimming area at the park after its absence for a number of years, and the town funding will allow more improvements on the waterfront.

“We want the state park to provide a pleasurable experience for our residents,” Davies said. “These funds will allow us to place grills in the area as well as provide more shade and additional swings for our adult visitors. We are most appreciative of the town’s support. The state park and the Town of Cheraw already has a good working relationship, and this will cement that partnership.”

At the June meeting, Mayor Andy Ingram complimented Davies and his staff for the outstanding job they have done in recent months, clearing underbrush which opened views to Lake Juniper, totally renovating the children’s playground, and partnering with the town in the construction of a volleyball court. In return, the state park provides the venue for a children’s nature camp each summer, has hosted the Cheraw Arts Commission Artist in Residence program on several occasions, and has been the setting for the town’s outdoor concert series. On July 19, the Town and State Park will again coordinate their efforts with the showing of an outdoor family movie “Despicable Me” from 8 to11 pm.

“The partnership between the town and the State Park is a win-win for everyone,” Mayor Ingram said. “The park is a huge asset for our community, and we need to continue working together to improve the quality of life for our residents.”