SECU, SECU Foundation, Dix Park Conservancy and City of Raleigh Break Ground on Transformation of Historic Stone Houses
On Jan. 26, 2023, the SECU, SECU Foundation, Dix Park Conservancy and City of Raleigh broke ground on the transformation of Dix Park’s three historic stone houses (the Superintendent’s House, Physicians’ House and Gatekeeper’s Cottage). The update is a key part of Dix Park’s strategic plan, which also includes the construction of the state-of-the-art Gipson Play Plaza and such popular events as the Dreamville music festival.
The transformation of the three long-abandoned dwellings at Dix Park is sponsored by the SECU and the SECU Foundation via a combined gift of $5 million. The meticulous restoration process will transform the historic houses into a vibrant destination for visitors of the park, and is expected to take about a year to complete.
Built in 1923, the former dwellings served as the entry point for thousands of patients and guests to the former Dix Hospital, then a landmark mental health facility. Following their restoration, the buildings will offer a visitor’s center, office and education space, a public restroom, outdoor seating and classroom space, gardens, and an accessible pathway connecting the park to the nearby Rocky Branch greenway.
At the groundbreaking, SECU and SECU Foundation executives as well as Raleigh Mayor Mary-Ann Baldwin, Secretary of the NC Department of Health and Human Services Kody Kinsley and Dix Park Conservancy CEO Janet Cowell unveiled plans for the iconic 100-year-old structures.
Maurer Architecture and construction contractor The Northgate Group are leading the project.
Photo gallery of prerestoration condition of the houses. Photos by Alex Williams
