This collaborative project will bring youthful energy to downtown Spindale, fostering community cohesion, while improving local recreation opportunties and bolstering the tourism economy.
North Slope’s innovative site plan and distintive project brand builds upon Spindale’s ongoing streetscape redevelopment efforts, further solidifying Spindale’s transformation into a vibrant and connected trail town.
Plan
Overview
Strategically woven into the Thermal Belt Rail Trail, North Slope Park completely revitalizes a once-vacant 1.6-acre parcel in the heart of Spindale’s central business district.
As part of Destination by Design’s comprehensive Rutherford Bound Tourism Master Plan, North Slope Park establishes Spindale as a vibrant destination and key gathering place along the Thermal Belt Rail Trail, enhancing the town’s appeal for locals and visitors alike.
Site Master Plan
Designed for efficient use of space, the park integrates essential elements for an accessible and family-friendly experience, including a 7,500-sqft. skatepark, an asphalt pump track, unique swinging benches, and a 20×20 picnic shelter. Modern restrooms with bike parking allows for seamless respite from the Thermal Belt Rail Trail and ADA-compliant sidewalks ensure all visitors feel comfortable.
The plan prioritizes a pedestrian-friendly environment that seamlessly intertwines with existing trail infrastructure. The integration of landscaping, streetscape improvements, and custom signage creates an inviting environment that blends with Spindale’s evolving urban landscape and tourism infrastructure.
Signage
The park features thoughtfully designed signage to enhance the visitor experience and navigation within the park and along the Thermal Belt Rail Trail, while remaining intertwined with Spindale’s current wayfinding.
A prominent entrance sign aims to draw visitors off the trail, and ultimately into downtown, while remaining aligned with Spindale’s character. Informational kiosks and wayfinding elements provide clear guidance through a rad design intended to inspire visitors to shred.
Brand
Identity
The North Slope brand identity compliments the town’s to create a cohesive sense of place.
Our team designed a dynamic logo to infuse youthful energy into the project. It features custom typography inspired by the smooth, flowing motion that users will experience on the pump track and skatepark.
Through a collaborative process with the town, we explored multiple concepts to develop a name and brand that truly reflects the spirit of the community. The result is a design that residents are excited to wear and embrace—symbolizing their pride in Spindale’s revitalization.
Community Engagement
Public feedback and community involvement played a pivotal role in shaping North Slope Park’s design. Through surveys, public meetings, and social media engagement, residents voiced strong support for the project. The input gathered helped refine the project, addressing community needs for accessibility, safety, and wellness.
