The Coastal Carolina Association of Realtors' Placemaking Grant, which totals $7,500, will be used for a comprehensive beautification initiative. The grant will cover various aspects of the project, including planting vibrant azaleas and crepe myrtles to enhance the park's natural beauty, mulching landscaping beds to improve the park's appearance, installing bike racks to encourage eco-friendly transportation options, providing tables and umbrellas for leisurely gatherings, and placing benches for park visitors to relax and enjoy the surroundings.

“This grant makes Collins Park an inviting environment for the players,” says Mary Catherine Hyman, Deputy City Administrator, and, “Collins Park will now be a showcase for what placemaking can do…turning a place that nobody really thinks about into a place everyone wants to be.”

City staff recently joined realtors from CCAR to install new landscaping provided through this grant.  This collaborative effort between CCAR and the City of Conway exemplifies a shared commitment to community improvement and the creation of inviting spaces that benefit all residents. The revitalization of Collins Park not only enhances the quality of life for our citizens but also adds value to our city.

The park construction of new pickleball courts and resurfaced tennis and basketball courts has been underway since earlier this year, and completion is expected by the end of September. During this time, the park will remain partially accessible, with temporary closures of specific areas to ensure the safety of visitors. The collaboration between CCAR and the City of Conway promises to deliver a revitalized Collins Park that the community can be proud of.