Honoring former Mayor John W. “Bill” Hurley with unveiling ceremony

Published on September 05, 2025

FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. - Community members are invited to celebrate former Mayor John “Bill” William Hurley with the unveiling of a monument to recognize his legacy during his time in Fayetteville. The unveiling ceremony will take place on Wednesday, Sept. 10 at 10 a.m. at 460 Hay Street, located in the green space in front of Segra Stadium and beside the Prince Charles.

Hurley moved to Fayetteville in 1955 and immediately became involved in the community. His passion and vision for the community led him to serve as Fayetteville’s mayor from 1981 to 1987. Hurley was instrumental in the revitalization of Downtown Fayetteville and founding the Dogwood Festival, declaring Fayetteville as “The city of Dogwoods.” After serving three terms as mayor, he went on to serve six terms in the N.C. House of Representatives.

To complement the monument in recognition of Hurley, Fayetteville-Cumberland Parks and Recreation completed updates to Hurley Plaza for residents and visitors to enjoy as they explore the Downtown district and while attending a Woodpeckers game at Segra Stadium.

Decorative baseball bollards have been installed along the Hay Street entrance promenade, with larger bollards placed at the stadium stairs. Additional improvements include fencing at the Maiden Lane entrance for pedestrian safety and to deter parking on grassy areas, as well as new trees, plants and sod to provide greenspace and shaded areas. Crash rated safety bollards at the Maiden Lane and Hay Street entrances to the stadium were also installed to provide additional pedestrian safety.

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