Duke Energy Foundation Grant | Grifton Nature Park
Grant funds will help develop a Nature Park in Grifton, NC
PITT COUNTY, N.C. – October 29, 2026, 10:00AM, For Immediate Release
Pitt County was awarded a $10,000 grant from the Duke Energy Foundation to fund the development of a new community space in the form of a nature park at 802 Wiley Gaskins Road in Grifton, N.C. The property is a County-owned flood buyout lot designated for transformation into a park.
County staff hosted an official grant award presentation on Monday, October 26, 2026, at the future site. County Manager Janis Gallagher and Board of County Commissioners Rochelle Brown and Mac Manning joined Lauren Wargo, Duke Energy District Manager, Government & Community Relations and Pitt County Cultural Arts & Recreation, Soil and Water Conservation District and Planning Department staff for the occasion.
“We are thrilled to receive this generous support from the Duke Energy Foundation, which allows us to give new life to this property,” says Janis Gallagher, Manager. “By transforming a vulnerable flood buyout into a vibrant public park, we are not just protecting our environment, Pitt County is actively investing in the community well-being of our residents for generations to come.”
“Pitt County has shown real leadership in taking a long-term approach to resilience, from strengthening infrastructure to finding thoughtful uses for flood buyout properties,” said Lauren Wargo. “The Duke Energy Foundation is glad to support locally driven efforts that help reduce future risk and strengthen communities for the years ahead,” says Lauren Wargo, Duke Energy District Manager.
The initiative aims to repurpose vulnerable lands into accessible green spaces that boost community well-being by improving physical and mental health through local outdoor recreation.
“The development of the natural park will improve access to recreational spaces, increase community engagement and awareness of native ecosystems and conservation practices,” says Jennifer Lanier- Coward, Cultural Arts & Recreation Director.
“This 2.15-acre buyout property was acquired in 2023, as a result of the flooding associated with Hurricane Matthew. Since 1999, Pitt County has acquired 125 properties totaling 309 acres through FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program. Administered by North Carolina Emergency Management, the program helps reduce future flood risks by acquiring properties vulnerable to repeated flooding,” adds Jonas Hill, Planning & Development Director.
The project is scheduled for completion in Spring 2027 with an official ribbon cutting event to mark the occasion.
For more information, contact Cultural Arts & Recreation at 252-902-1982.
Presentation photos may be downloaded courtesy of the Public Information Office.
Pitt County’s Mission is to enhance the community’s well-being with care, respect and efficiency. Learn more: www.PittCountyNC.gov.
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