In Fall 2021, Weldon In Action volunteers suggested to the mayor and town administrator a project to improve the riverfront for pedestrians and a pavilion for group enjoyment. Together they sought to engage a landscape designer to develop plans.  The Halifax Tourism and Convention Center CEO, working with Weldon In Action, accepted responsibility for working with the consultant and developing proposals to submit the project.  The original plans and images were presented in April of 2022 at Town Hall for the public to see and provide input.  Feedback was also collected via a Weldon Facebook group and through a survey developed by the Halifax Tourism and Convention Bureau.

Now, the project is undergoing further planning by a steering committee appointed by the Weldon Town Council to examine improvements with the goal of improving access to the riverfront for viewing the falls and accommodating groups for entertainment. Components of the plan under consideration consist of the construction of a walkway for pedestrians, accessible to all using the concept of universal design, from the NC Wildlife Resources Boat Landing down beyond the Weldon Mills distillery building. It also includes a covered pavilion for community programming, concerts, and catered events. Repurposed container pop-up markets for use by vendors and their location for festivals and craft shows are included in the planning.  The purpose is to accommodate pedestrians as well as fishermen, physically impaired walkers as well as robust hikers, and children as well as adults to a major recreation area. Enhancement of the river front will improve the health and well-being of residents, increase visitation to the Town, and enhance commerce.

The Riverfront Steering Committee meetings are open the public. Time, date and location of the meetings can be found on our events page or the Town of Weldon website (scroll through the front banner).  Meetings are usually once a month, but can be more frequent.  Each meeting offers a public comment section where citizens can share their thoughts or questions at any time.

Currently, River Falls Park, owned by the Town of Weldon, serving local residents as well as visitors, includes a picnic shelter, restrooms, a walking track, and a small, elevated overlook of the Roanoke River. Grant funds for this project were awarded to the Town of Weldon through the State Capital Infrastructure Fund and were scheduled initially to be used by July 2025. 

River Falls Park is connected to the Roanoke Canal Trail, a seven-mile-long walking trail from River Falls Park to Roanoke Rapids Lake Park. This trail follows the bed of the Roanoke Canal built in 1823.  NC Wildlife Resources operates a boat landing at the park, used heavily especially during rockfish season. There is now a canoe/kayak outtake at the northern end of the park area. It opened in May 2024. When constructed, the riverfront project will enable travelers to access the park by land and from the river itself. Canoes and kayaks can travel from an input area in Gaston, N. C. down to Weldon, exit the river at the northern end of park. Hikers can enter from the canal trail. Pedestrians can enjoy pathways along the river. Anglers can launch their boats at the landing.  People from all walks of life will be able to enjoy the pavilion, facilities and walkways in the park.