FAYETTEVILLE — Mayor Lioneld Jordan handed Chambers Bank representatives a check for just more than $3 million Wednesday to buy land atop Mount Kessler.
A $1.5 million contribution from the city, out of general fund reserve, will be matched soon by a grant from the Walton Family Foundation. The Fayetteville Natural Heritage Association committed to raising $300,000 during the next three years to offset taxpayers' investment.
The City Council approved the purchase last month after hearing from conservationists, outdoors enthusiasts and educators who advocated preserving 376 acres of woodland in the southwest part of town.
The property, near the Cato Springs Road interchange on Interstate 540, features several miles of hiking and mountain biking trails, along with rock formations, groves of more than 200-year-old oak trees and panoramic views of south Fayetteville and Farmington.
City officials have said the land will provide outdoor recreational and educational opportunities in a natural setting next to a 200-acre regional park.
As a condition for the Walton Family Foundation grant, the city must build a publicly accessible trailhead within 90 days.
Jeremy Pate, city Development Services director, said planners are working to identify the location of the trailhead. The city also will be responsible for maintaining all trails.
An additional $950 went toward closing costs and recording fees, said Kit Williams, city attorney.
After signed deeds are recorded in the Washington County Circuit Clerk's office, the city will own the land, Williams said.
Chambers Bank, which acquired the property in lieu of foreclosure from developers of the failed SouthPass project, sold the city about 328 acres. The bank donated another 48 acres. The donated land will fulfill park requirements for anyone who develops remaining bank-owned property.
Also, as part of the transaction, city and bank officials agreed to swap several parcels, giving the city access to land where trail connections are planned and preventing pockets of city property in the middle of bank-owned land.
Pate said city officials will work with the foundation and association to place restrictions on the property, ensuring there will be no commercial or residential development on the city land.
NW News on 03/27/2014