Norris Park transforms the former Rutherfordton Golf Club into a vibrant, multi-use community recreation destination in Rutherford County, North Carolina.
Destination by Design (DbD) worked with the Town of Rutherfordton to support the park’s development, from planning and design to engineering and branding. The park features a disc golf course that uses the land’s natural features to create fun and challenging holes, as well as the Overmountain Victory Trail, a one-mile natural surface walking trail that runs through the park. Additional amenities include restrooms, picnic facilities, a disc golf practice area, and trail connectivity.
The
Challenge
The site remained unused for nearly five years after the golf course closed, providing an opportunity for community recreation and economic development. Our team needed to reimagine the property — which was originally developed as the Rutherfordton Golf Club in 1929 by Dr. Henry Norris — into an inclusive recreational asset that would serve players of all skill levels, honor the site’s history, and provide various ways to engage with the outdoors.
Community Vision
Through extensive collaboration with town council, local citizens, funders, and other partners, the vision emerged for a regional destination to provide broader recreational influence than the previous single-use facility. The community prioritized accessibility, inclusivity, and opportunities for residents and visitors of all ages and abilities to enjoy outdoor recreation.
Collaboration & Funding
DbD worked with NC-based disc golf design company Ace Place and the disc golf pioneers at Innova to bring the community’s vision to life. The project is supported by grants from the RHI Legacy Foundation, North Carolina Parks and Recreation Trust Fund, Rutherford County Tourism Development Authority, Carolina Foothills Foundation, the Rutherford Recreation Trust Fund, and the Overmountain Victory Trail Association.
Visual Identity
Our visual identity development created a cohesive system that celebrates both the site’s golfing heritage and its transformation into a modern disc golf destination. The identity reflects the welcoming, community-centered atmosphere while establishing Norris Park as a premier regional recreation facility with professional-grade amenities and wayfinding signage.
