In 2022, I opted to take matters into my own hands to resolve this 25-year lost resource. I first approached the Jefferson Parish Council in November 2022 to trim the 13-heritage oak trees on the Jefferson Parish side of the park.
Currently completing the restoration of West End Lakeshore Park is stopped at the State level. The Governor’s office will not file a FEMA or GOSHEP claim nor comment. For over a year, I have been asking DOA Jay Dardenne to address repairing the lake retention wall. There has been no response as potential FEMA funds near expiration.
In April, I went to Baton Rouge to ask the legislature for funding to repair the seawall. There was no interest.
As West End Lakeshore Park sits derelict, Jefferson Parish has raised $15 million to build a living shoreline. Federal Funds are available via the 2021 Infrastructure Act, Alliance for Open Space, and Bike Path Grants. I have met with Senator Cassidy on the $50 Million available for Lake Pontchartrian.
As State Representative, Marsala will propose the legislation to return West End Lakeshore Park to a Public Park.