A dedication ceremony was held at the corner of W. North and Mitchell Streets. Adopted from the city, a once-vacant lot bloomed with a memorial garden, honoring the late Ms. Shirley Herring's dedication to beautifying downtown. This three-year endeavor was funded by donations.

A mural by artist Sully McCrae added whimsy, while a pergola crafted by Boy Scouts and a sculpture by Rose Clark paid homage to Ms. Herring's legacy. Benches are from Neuse Sport Shop, The Village, and Ms. Diana Shackelford, and landscaping by Ivey’s Garden Center.