Hey Statesville. We need to talk! We need to talk about parks … and recreation programs … and facilities … and greenways. We’re still working on a new Comprehensive Recreation and Parks Master Plan for Statesville - we call it “Route 2 Recreation” or “R2” - and it desperately needs your input. We want to get together with you … outside … wearing masks and social distancing …and tell you about this project. But mainly, we want to hear your thoughts and dreams about our Recreation and Parks Department. Keep reading to see where we will be gathering …

Statesville is not hosting its annual July Fourth Fireworks Celebration this year due to COVID-19 concerns. If you’re thinking about putting on your show, here’s what you need to know before you purchase legal fireworks from a reputable fireworks dealer: The only fireworks that are legal in North Carolina are sparklers, fountains, and novelty fireworks items that do not explode or are not intended to spin or to leave the ground and fly through the air. These include snake and glow worms, smoke devices consisting of a tube or sphere that produce white or colored smoke, trick noisemakers, including party poppers, string poppers and snappers and wire sparklers. You must be 18 to purchase fireworks in North Carolina and it is illegal for children under the age of 16 to possess fireworks. That’s why the Statesville Fire Marshall’s office stresses that fireworks should only be used under close adult supervision. Thousands of people of are injured each year due to fireworks-related incidents. If you choose to buy and use legal fireworks, follow these safety tips:

City of Statesville offices will be closed Friday, July 3 in observance of the Fourth of July holiday. There will be no garbage collection on July 3rd. The revised schedule for garbage collection is: Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday routes will operate on a regular schedule. Thursday and Friday routes will be collected on Thursday. The Leisure Pool will be open July 4th with swim sessions from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. and 3 - 6 p.m. The Splash Pad at the Bentley Community Center will also be open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.