Murphy Celebrates Dedication of New Town Square and Center Stage

(Photo from the Downtown Murphy Facebook page) Mayor Tim Radford addresses the crowd at the dedication.

Murphy, NC — On June 11, 2026, the Town of Murphy officially dedicated its new Town Square and Center Stage, marking a significant milestone in the revitalization of downtown Murphy and the culmination of years of collaborative community effort.

The dedication ceremony recognized the vision, leadership, and hard work that brought this long-anticipated public space to life. Town officials, community leaders, and residents gathered to celebrate the new gathering place, which promises to serve as a vibrant hub for events, arts, and local commerce in the heart of Murphy.

Organizers expressed deep gratitude to the many individuals and groups whose contributions made the project possible. Special thanks were extended to Town Council members — past and present — along with the Main Street Board, past and present. Former Mayor Rick Ramsey and current Mayor Tim Radford were recognized for their leadership, as were dedicated town staff and former Downtown Director Laura Lachance.

Main Street Committees and key partner organizations were also honored for their ongoing support, including:

• Friends of MainStreet Murphy

• Murphy Business Association

• Cherokee County Arts Council

• Valley River Art Guild

• Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce

Construction partners received special recognition for their expertise and commitment to the project:

• Allison Platt of Regenerative by Design

• James Vosos of Matteen & Craig

• NCDOT representatives Andy Russell and Adam Dockery, along with the former district engineer

• Murphy Electric Power Board

• Colwell Construction

The new Town Square and Center Stage represent a major step forward for downtown Murphy, providing a welcoming space for community events, performances, and gatherings that will strengthen local connections and support economic vitality in Cherokee County.

This project stands as a testament to what can be achieved through sustained collaboration between local government, business leaders, arts organizations, and dedicated residents. The Town of Murphy and its partners look forward to welcoming the community to enjoy this exciting new public venue for years to come.