The City of Lake Charles, Louisiana

The City of Lake Charles held a grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony on Saturday, March 18 for Riverside Park Activity Center at 1700 Fitzenreiter Road, which is located along the Calcasieu River.

Park improvements include a new playground with rubberized surface, a 2,000 square-foot recreation facility and pavilion at the water's edge, and restrooms available for patrons at the park's entry. The parking lot has been paved, and additional surveillance equipment has been installed. The improvements were completed at a cost of $1.2 million with $750,000 coming from the state as part of the capital outlay program.

Riverside Park is a 210-acre park that includes walking and bike trails, fishing areas, wooded wetlands, picnic areas with a large covered pavilion, multiple piers, a playground and restrooms, as well as McDonald “Mac” Cobbs Boat Launch. The park was initially constructed as part of a city bond project approved by voters in 2006. 

"The beauty of the Calcasieu River can be seen from the new community center at Riverside Park, which has an incomparable indoor view of the waterway and provides a great meeting space for student groups, families and civic clubs,” stated Mayor Randy Roach. “The public has been very supportive of this nature park located inside the city, and many volunteers, birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts have personally adopted beautification efforts and cleanups at Riverside Park.”

“We would be remiss if we did not thank our legislative delegation in Baton Rouge who helped make Riverside Park Phase 2 possible. The State of Louisiana appropriated $750,000 for the park’s expansion, and I want to thank them on behalf of all those who will enjoy the park for many years to come. Simply put, Riverside Park is a standout addition to the City of Lake Charles parks system."

City Councilwoman Mary Morris added, “I would like to thank the residents who added their input and contributed to the community’s vision for the activity center. I hope this park and activity center becomes a place where people from all over town can meet and enjoy the outdoors together. It’s not a north Lake Charles affair; it’s a Lake Charles affair.” 

For more information on Riverside Park or to book the Activity Center, please call 491-1280.