Come one, come all to Union Point Park! Located right off the pristine banks of both the Neuse and Trent Rivers in downtown New Bern, this park is a favorite among locals for its variety of activities and events. This six-acre park offers a fishing pier, plenty of open green space, and scenic views of the water. There are also restrooms and picnic tables.
The park’s gazebo is used for weddings and other special events, and offers a picturesque view of the waterfront. There are also grills, picnic tables, and small playgrounds. The park is located near the historic Bicentennial Park, and is open to the public. There is a public dock for fishing and boating, as well.
In addition to the park, there are several nearby piers. The San Antonio Pier is about half a mile north of Union Point, and the Estuary Park Pier is just south of the park. These piers offer fishing, a range of fish species, and a launch for boats. There are also several pieces of public art in the Embarcadero Pier park.
The park was constructed in 2005 to provide a recreational and open space for residents to enjoy the outdoors. The site was designed by Boston-based Elkus Manfredi Architects. It was also envisioned as an oasis of calm in a light industrial neighborhood. It was initially championed as a futuristic development that would attract Amazon to Boston. However, the project has fallen short on many of its promises.
Since the park’s opening, there have been two evictions. The first occurred in February 2018. The second took place in September. The evictions followed a state order. The BCDC ordered Oakland shut down the camp by February. The city offered the residents transportation to other shelters, food, and hygiene supplies. A new Cease and Desist Order was issued by the BCDC in October 2020. It states that the camp must be moved or closed by February 2021. The encampment at Union Point is illegal and violates state policy. The city will continue to monitor the camp’s activities, and will reassess it every few months.
The BCDC found several violent incidents occurring at Union Point Park since 2018, and directed the city to take action. The encampment was adjudged in violation of state policy by the BCDC. Consequently, protestors decided to move their tents elsewhere for greater safety as they had been previously exposed to various risks such as cars whizzing right next to them or even building barricades blocking vehicular access into the park. To secure a long-lasting solution, the city was driven to move all current campers into safer and more habitable dwellings. Oakland‘s “camp policy” continues to be heavily disputed as it arranges regulations for camping throughout much of the city that are determined by ‘supreme sensitivity.’
Why not make a day of it and explore the wonders of Union Point Park? From its sublime beauty to its remarkable historical significance, you’re sure to find something that will captivate your attention. So what are you waiting for? Get out there and experience all this park has to offer!
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