news-record.com

KERNERSVILLE — Nestled between the cities of Greensboro, High Point and Winston-Salem, Kernersville still boasts a small-town atmosphere.

Kernersville is filled with local businesses and local activism. Chairs in the board of aldermen's chambers are nearly filled each month with residents interested in the town's business.

There's a spirit of volunteering as many residents work with local nonprofits and organizations.

Many of those groups are responsible for activities at town festivals such as the Spring Folly held each May. The festival features music, games, rides, crafts and gifts.

Another town favorite is the Music at Twilight series on the town hall lawn.

Many residents say the small-town atmosphere is what first attracted them to Kernersville.

But the town is situated next to Business 40 and Interstate 40 — and that's causing some growing pains.

With an increasing population come the challenges of how to provide services to residents and businesses without burdening taxpayers with higher taxes.

The town is struggling to add new fire stations and pay for a recreation center.

The newest recreational feature is Century Park Lake at 309 Century Blvd. The Vivian F. Bennett Memorial Dog Park at 702 W. Mountain St. is expected to open by November. Other parks include the Kernersville Skate Park, Fourth of July Park and Harmon Park.

With growth comes the need for more roads and road improvements to handle the increase in traffic. Town officials have been working closely with transportation officials to upgrade roads such as an interchange at Macy Grove Road and I-40.

Planning staff also has been working to revise town ordinances and land-use maps to help guide growth in the small town.

There's also the Heart of the Triad, a regional development plan the town is working on with other cities, towns and counties in the area.

But as the town manages its growth, its main goal is to retain the small-town appeal that first inspired people to call Kernersville home.

Contact E.A. Seagraves at 883-4422, Ext. 241, or elizabeth.seagraves@news-record.com