Knightdale voters said yes to a $55 million investment in their town's recreational future, approving a bond referendum on November 4 that will fund a new community center and a wave of park upgrades. The measure passed with 61% of the vote, clearing the way for construction of a sprawling new facility off Marks Creek Road.
According to CBS 17, the referendum's approval authorized local officials to issue general obligation bonds, with proceeds supporting construction of a new community center along with capital improvements across Knightdale's parks and recreational facilities. The same report notes that town officials pursued the bond to meet the recreational needs of a rapidly growing population, following public surveys, community engagement sessions, a formal needs assessment, and initial project concepts developed by municipal staff. The tally itself was reported by Indy Week, which confirmed the $55 million bond passed with 61% support.
A New Hub on a Donated 33-Acre Site
The planned community center is slated for a 33-acre town-owned site at 2004 Marks Creek Road, land that A. Elizabeth Croom donated to the town, per the CBS 17 report. The facility itself is expected to span approximately 65,000 square feet, featuring multiple gymnasiums, fitness studios, and multipurpose spaces designed to support recreational programming for residents of various ages and interests. The surrounding site plan includes opportunities for outdoor recreation and community events, the station notes.
Details published on the Knightdale NC Bond project page flesh out what that could look like: three gym courts, an indoor stage, and a walking track, alongside multi-generational programming spaces. Bond proceeds may also contribute to improvements at existing town parks, equipment purchases, facility furnishings, land acquisition, and associated infrastructure upgrades, according to CBS 17.
What the Bond Means for Taxpayers
Before the vote, WUNC News reported the measure would authorize Knightdale to borrow up to $55 million in general obligation bonds over seven years, with an option to request a three-year extension. The station projected the bond would increase property taxes by an estimated $35 a year for every $100,000 of property value. WUNC's reporting also indicated bond proceeds could fund renovations to Harper Park, among other parks and recreation projects beyond the new community center.
The outlet's pre-election coverage pointed to a real gap in Knightdale's current offerings: the town's existing recreation center is attached to Forestville Elementary School and is primarily used for youth athletics. That shortfall showed up in planning documents well before this year's vote — Knightdale's 2021–22 Comprehensive Parks & Recreation Master Plan identified a community center as a primary need for residents, per the same WUNC account.
Growth Pressures Behind the Push
The numbers help explain the urgency. The U.S. Census counted Knightdale's population at 23,144 in July 2025, about 18% higher than in 2020 and more than double what it was in 2010, according to WUNC's report. The Town of Knightdale's own demographics page likewise states that the town's population has more than doubled since 2000.
Knightdale Mayor Jessica Day commended residents for participating in community discussions and casting ballots, per CBS 17's report. “This is an important step forward for Knightdale,” Day said, according to the outlet. She added that residents' participation helped make their voices heard, and said the investment will expand recreation, connection, and community engagement opportunities as Knightdale grows.
What Comes Next
With the referendum behind it, Knightdale will enter the next development phase, which CBS 17 reports includes financial planning, design work, and project development processes. Town officials said they will share further project timeline and next-step details as they become available.
