Mecklenburg County Adds 30 Acres to Idlewild Park With $10M Land Purchase

Mecklenburg County acquired two plots for $10 million, pushing Idlewild Park in Matthews past the 230-acre mark. The purchases — at 2337 Hargett Road and 4420 Margaret Wallace Road — closed in early April, per property records.

"This is a meaningful investment in expanding Idlewild Park and a win for the entire community," Matthews Mayor John Higdon said in a statement, according to the Charlotte Observer.

Town officials confirmed the acquisitions will tack on 30 acres. What comes next remains unclear. Neither town nor county representatives answered questions about plans or construction timelines.

The current 203-acre park sits at 10512 Idlewild Road, offering ballfields, playgrounds, picnic areas, a disc golf course, and a connection to Irvins Creek Greenway.

County leaders announced intentions to build a skatepark at the site. A bicycle and pedestrian link to Margaret Wallace Road is also in the works, part of several upgrades slated for this location.

This marks a substantial boost for one of the area's bigger recreation sites. Once integrated, the park will span roughly 233 acres.

Matthews lies in the county's southeastern section. In recent years, town and county officials have collaborated on several park upgrades.

Records indicate both transactions wrapped up in early April 2026. The two plots border the existing park along Hargett Road and Margaret Wallace Road.

No timeline has been announced for construction. The county's park and recreation department website shows several active projects at this site.

This growth reflects ongoing county commitments to park infrastructure. These spaces provide gathering spots and recreation outlets for thousands of residents throughout the region.