Bringing Morganton Park South to Life

A Southern Pines’ shopping destination is making quite the splash! Anchored by favorites like Dick’s Sporting Goods and Target, Morganton Park’s Phase One development isn’t just about shopping—it’s about creating an experience. At the heart of it all? A stunning Otterbine 10HP Giant Fountain in the Mystic pattern, installed by Dragonfly Pond Works. This fountain transforms the retention pond into a centerpiece, adding beauty and supporting a healthier pond ecosystem.

The Impact of Otterbine’s Giant Fountain on Southern Pines’ Newest Shopping Hub

Located off Carolina Green Parkway in Southern Pines, NC, (about an hour south of Raleigh, NC, ) Morganton Park’s Phase One development is transforming the local landscape with a thoughtful blend of retail and recreational spaces. This new 266,000ft² upscale shopping complex, anchored by flagship stores like Dick’s Sporting Goods and Target, is designed not only for convenience but for community engagement. At the heart of this development is a striking water feature—a 10HP Otterbine Giant Fountain in the Mystic pattern, installed by Dragonfly Pond Works. More than just a visual centerpiece, this fountain adds value and purpose to the complex, enhancing the atmosphere for visitors while supporting a healthy pond ecosystem.

Backed by MidAtlantic Properties and coordinated by Ashland Construction Company, Morganton Park aims to be more than a shopping destination. Under the leadership of Rhett Moody, Sr. VP at Ashland Construction, the development reflects a balance between functionality and aesthetics. The addition of the Otterbine fountain in the retention pond exemplifies this approach, showcasing how carefully selected elements can elevate a commercial space’s appeal and utility.

Dragonfly Pond Works, located in Wilmington, NC, spearheaded the installation of the Otterbine 10HP Giant Fountain in the Mystic pattern. With Otterbine’s regional sales manager Steve Blackshire on-site to oversee the installation, the team ensured precision in assembly and functionality to meet the developers' high standards. This level of collaboration highlights how partnerships can bring value and reliability to large-scale projects.

Images of Morganton Park

Pictured above are plans for the site's development.

Pictured above is an aerial view of the shopping center.

The Strategic Value of Pond Fountains in Commercial Developments

Creating a Signature Entrance
A well-chosen water feature can make an immediate impression. Positioned prominently in Morganton Park’s retention pond, the Otterbine Giant Fountain serves as a natural, elegant landmark that draws visitors in. The fountain adds movement and beauty to the water, helping create a sense of place in a high-traffic shopping environment.
Promoting Environmental Health
Fountains like Otterbine’s offer functionality beyond aesthetics. By aerating the pond, the fountain prevents stagnation, controls algae growth, and enhances overall water quality. For city planners and landscape architects, these benefits are essential for ensuring that retention ponds contribute positively to the site’s environment.
Supporting Community Engagement and Economic Growth
Thoughtful design choices impact more than just appearance; they enhance visitor experiences and build community pride. Morganton Park’s fountain makes the complex more welcoming and attractive, encouraging longer visits and fostering a sense of connection to the space. This is a design decision that contributes to Southern Pines’ economy by creating a destination locals and visitors alike can appreciate.

Conclusion

Morganton Park’s Phase One development highlights the potential of blending aesthetics and functionality in commercial spaces. With the Otterbine Giant Fountain as its centerpiece, this shopping complex exemplifies the positive impact of well-planned water features on the community and environment. As development continues, Morganton Park is set to inspire future projects by demonstrating how design can elevate both appearance and purpose in a shared public space.