2025 Award of Merit: Lumberton

Elm Street Pocket Park

2025 Main Street Award: Design

Best Outdoor Space Improvement

• City of Lumberton

• Robeson County Arts Council

• Lumber River United Way

• Robeson County Government

• Dick and Lenore Taylor
  

Watch The Award Video

Elm Street Pocket Park in downtown Lumberton has redefined what’s possible for downtown revitalization through art, collaboration, and economic vision.

What began as two vacant lots has been transformed into a vibrant, welcoming public space that now serves as a cultural anchor and economic catalyst for the entire downtown district.

Thanks to the generosity of Dick and Lenore Taylor, who donated the land, and the leadership of Main Street Lumberton, the Main Street Design Committee, and the City of Lumberton, Elm Street Pocket Park is now a signature destination that reflects the heart and soul of the community.

With landscaped seating, a colorful mural supported by the Robeson County Arts Council and North Carolina Arts Council, and a striking metal sculpture by renowned artist Bob Doster, the park invites residents, visitors, and downtown employees to gather, linger, and connect. But its impact goes far beyond aesthetics.

Elm Street Pocket Park has sparked a wave of economic revitalization. Since its completion, five new businesses have opened downtown, and the park has catalyzed nearly $300,000 in private investment from neighboring properties. The historic Carlyle Building, built in 1910 and located adjacent to the park, underwent a façade transformation with grant support—creating a safer, more inviting streetscape.

Nearby, Elevation Ink opened its doors and continues to thrive, a testament to the park’s role in attracting and supporting new business activity.

Plans are already underway for new residential units adjacent to the park, further strengthening downtown’s appeal as a place to live, work, and invest. The park has increased pedestrian traffic, boosted property values, and created a culturally enriched environment that supports the entire downtown ecosystem.

This project is a shining example of what’s possible when public-private partnerships come together with a shared vision. With support from the U.S. Department of Treasury, Robeson County Government, and Lumber River United Way, Elm Street Pocket Park demonstrates how creative placemaking can drive both community engagement and economic growth.