Rolesville's fast-growing population is creating an increase in demand for youth programs.

The town's parks and recreation department has to be creative with scheduling to maximize its space.

Right now, the town shares one gym and three baseball fields with Wake County schools.

William Leonard, director of Parks and Recreation, says that because of the space limitations, sometimes teams will have to double or triple up on athletic fields for practices this spring.
In the fall, some of those same fields may be used for football or soccer.

"Our No. 1 discussion now with the town board and the public is to talk about when we are going to get new facilities," said Leonard. "The answer to that question is, I don't know yet."

He said town staff is working on some concept designs and the possibility of building a community center to offer more programs and activities in coming years.

"We're hoping in the next five to seven years, we'll see some progress," said Leonard. "But it takes time, it takes patience, it takes money."

The number of non-residents signing up for Rolesville youth athletics is also rising. Leonard attributes some of that growth to Wake County School reassignments.

"A lot of kids who live in Raleigh or Wake Forest or Zebulon, they go to school in Rolesville," Leonard said. "Wherever they go to school, they want to participate with their friends."

Related Links

1. http://www.ci.rolesville.nc.us/recreation/default.htm