2015
2016
2017
2018
2019
2020
Purchase of Dix Hill - 2015
The vision started to take shape when the City of Raleigh purchased the 308-acre property now known as Dix Park from the State of North Carolina. This storied land has a rich history to study, share, and celebrate as well as the promise of a bright future as Dix Park transforms to become extraordinary public space with lush green fields, bountiful gardens, and adventure play areas for all ages.
Dix Park Conservancy Formed - 2016
Leaders from three grassroots organizations, Dix Visionaries, Dix 306, and Friends of Dix Park joined forces to form the Dorothea Dix Park Conservancy, the park philanthropic partner to focus on fundraising, advocacy, and community engagement.
Community Engagement & Master Planning Underway - 2017
The city and Dix Park Conservancy, in partnership with world-renowned landscape architecture firm MVVA, embarked on an ambitious community engagement program to begin the process of creating Dix Park. There were over 65,000 touchpoints with the public to engage in master planning. Residents young and old from all walks of life came together to explore the park’s beauty and opportunities to help envision and design a park for everyone.
Secret Garden of Sunflowers - July 2018
Four acres of sunflowers drew tens of thousands of visitors for photo opps and Instagramable moments. Planted in partnership with Raleigh Water, Office of Sustainability and Raleigh Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resources, the sunflower field served as a fun local attraction, created a wonderful pollinator habitat, and supported the City’s biofuel program.
Master Plan Approved - February 2019
Raleigh city council unanimously approved the Dix Park Master Plan to champion the creation of Dix Park. The city received overwhelming support from over 65,000 community engagement touchpoints lead by landscape architect firm Michael Van Valkenburgh Associates.
Dreamville Music Festival - April 2019
Dix Park welcomed 40,000 music fans from North Carolina, across the United States, and even points around the world to celebrate the music of J. Cole, SZA, Nelly, Rapsody, 21 Savage, and more. The first ever festival of this size was truly a celebration of music, art, community, and culture that set the stage for future large-scale events and festivals.
Plaza and play is moving forward with MVVA as the design team leading the design process.
Community Committee has begun its work as the community advisory group guiding the development of the park.
The historic mid-century modern chapel renovations are underway, which will become the community welcome and event center at the park.
Planning begins for an urban path to connect Chavis Park and Dix Park.
Feasibility study for enhancement of the Rocky Branch and landfill area to aid future decision- making for the creek rehabilitation project.