LENOIR — Visitors to T.H. Broyhill Walking Park in Lenoir will now have a new place to sit and enjoy the scenery thanks to a partnership between the Broyhill Family Foundation and Appalachian State University.

The City of Lenoir announced that students in Appalachian State University’s Industrial Design program designed, built and installed a series of new artistic benches at the park. City officials say each bench serves as both a functional seating area and a piece of public art.

The project was funded through a $12,000 contribution from the Broyhill Family Foundation, which covered materials, a student stipend and installation costs.

According to the city, the benches enhance the visual appeal of the park while reinforcing its role as a creative community space.

T.H. Broyhill Walking Park is located at 945 Lakewood Circle Southwest in Lenoir and is one of several parks maintained by the city’s Parks and Recreation Department.

City officials thanked the Broyhill Family Foundation and Appalachian State University students for their work on the project and their contribution to the community.