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New Building at Belle River Recreation Area

Grand Opening to be held Thursday, Sept. 26th

The St. Martin Recreation District and the state Department of Natural Resources’ Atchafalaya Basin Program (ABP) will hold a Grand Opening and Ribbon-Cutting for the newly constructed, Belle River Meeting Center on Thursday, September 26 at 10 a.m.

The facility will serve as a multi-use center and was funded by St. Martin Parish Recreation District #1 and the state Atchafalaya Basin Program at a total cost of $360,707.  DNR contributed $80,000 while the parish government funding included a local tax. This project is Phase II of the Belle River Recreation Complex and the construction work was performed by Bonneval Construction Company of Patterson, La.

The Meeting Center compliments the existing walking trail adjacent to the river which was completed in 2009 as part of Phase 1 of the overall ABP project designed to allow more public access to the area by visitors and residents.

DNR Secretary Stephen Chustz said that this facility is a continuation of our efforts to provide more infrastructure for residents and tourists who have come to enjoy the “Atchafalaya Experience”.

St. Martin Parish President Guy Cormier said, “It is my hope that the new meeting center will provide the residents of Lower St. Martin a place to spend time together and discuss things that are important to the community.”

Chairwoman of the St. Martin Recreation District Charlotte Ratcliff noted, “The residents of this area have for many years wanted a place like this and today marks that reality of cutting the ribbon and opening the doors to this beautiful facility shaped by the dedication of some key people along with the state and parish.”

The public is invited to attend the ceremony and view the buildings and grounds of the complex at 1413 Highway 70, in Pierre Part.