It has been 25 years since any significant upgrades were made to Bethune Park in Norco, but the St. Charles Parish Department of Parks and Recreation is looking to change that with a major project expected to begin this year.
“This park update is well overdue as we try to work our way across the parish in an efficient and fiscally responsible manner to ensure our parks make a positive impact on our residents,” Alissa Cavaretta, Assistant Director of St. Charles Parish Parks and Recreation, Public Relations, said.
The project includes adding multi-purpose fields, which will add space for flag football season. Additionally, plans include new fencing, new backstops, a new batting cage, the addition of a large pavilion, a new basketball court and sail shades for sun protection, Cavaretta added.
The Bethune Park project is currently in the bidding process and the budget to complete the upgrades is $600,000. Once the department opens bids and selects a contractor, they will bring it in front of the Parish Council.
“If it is approved from there, a notice to proceed is issued for work to begin shortly thereafter,” Cavaretta said.
The park will be accessible to residents throughout the duration of baseball, softball and T-ball season this spring.
“This is great for our Norco residents as they will maintain full access in the hopes of having the park completed for the next spring season,” Cavaretta said. “Once construction begins, access to the park will be limited. However, this is not anticipated to interfere with any department-specific sports activities.”
The planned upgrade comes after the Department of Parks and Recreation revisited its master plan in 2021.
“One of the main takeaways from the plan is to have a community park in each area where booster clubs have adequate space to practice and hold games when necessary,” Cavaretta said.
