The Town of Murphy completed its downtown Town Square Project in December 2025, transforming four former pocket parks into a cohesive and welcoming public square. The project was made possible through a $915,000 Rural Transformation Grant awarded by the North Carolina Department of Commerce.
The grant award was announced in 2022, with Murphy selected as one of 42 local government units statewide. The project was led by former Downtown Development Director, Laura Lachance.
Prior to the start of construction, the Town replaced approximately 3,000 linear feet of more than 100-year-old waterlines within the downtown district. This infrastructure upgrade was completed in anticipation of upcoming milling and resurfacing work planned by the North Carolina Department of Transportation.
The completed project featured brick paver installations at all four corners of the square, enhanced lighting with downlights, and additional aesthetic improvements. A small stage was constructed in the eastern open space of the Town Square, providing a dedicated venue for small concerts, films, civic gatherings, and community events.
Construction was performed by Colwell Construction of Blairsville, Georgia. Work began in June and was completed in early December 2025.
Murphy’s designation as a Main Street community played a key role in securing the grant and advancing the project. The completed improvements enhanced downtown Murphy’s pedestrian-friendly atmosphere and strengthened its role as a hub for community activity and economic vitality. Planning support for the project was provided by Allison Platt of Regeneration by Design.
As a related effort, the North Carolina Department of Transportation plans to mill and resurface the remaining streets within the downtown area later in the summer of 2026.