AHOSKIE – As Phase 1 of the Ahoskie Creek Recreational Complex winds down, Phase 2 is gearing up.

At their meeting here earlier this week, the Ahoskie Town Council unanimously approved submitting a grant application to CAMA, seeking nearly $200,000 worth of improvements to the complex.

The town is seeking those funds to construct a 1,800 linear foot, eight-foot wide asphalt walking trail along the Ahoskie Creek as well as 97 space parking lot. The walking trail will be ADA (American Disabilities Act) accessible.

The total cost of the two projects, which includes planning and design, is listed at $184,920.

Ahoskie Town Manager Tony Hammond said the grant application to CAMA is due by the end of this month.

“This project is a continuation of the original plan design (of the recreational complex) with the exception of it is now being phased in over a period of several years,” Hammond said. “These funds, along with the town’s investment, will transform a 74-acre parcel of land into a recreation complex unmatched in the local area.”

Using previous grants from CAMA and the North Carolina Parks and Recreation Trust Fund and matching funds from the town, Ahoskie is currently in the process of developing baseball/softball fields, an all-purpose field, volleyball courts, a concession stand/restroom facility, covered shelters and playgrounds. Those additions to the complex followed the building of the Ahoskie Creek Amphitheater and soccer fields.

The current construction process combined with past and future projects will put the price of the complex in excess of $2 million.

Councilman Malcolm Copeland made the motion to move forward with the funding request from CAMA. It was seconded by Councilman Winfred Hardy and approved by a 5-0 vote.