Meraux Foundation Celebrates Progress on Chenier Nature Park and Trail
The Meraux Foundation, a family foundation committed to improving the quality of life in St. Bernard Parish, celebrates the start of construction on the Chenier Nature Park and Trail. This transformative project, made possible by the Meraux Foundation's donation of 45 acres of land, marks a significant step in its broader strategy of place-based development and coastal restoration for the area around the 40 Arpent in Chalmette. The Chenier Nature Park and Trail will foster recreation, eco-tourism, and livability while supporting coastal resilience in St. Bernard Parish.
Set to include a retention pond, captivating landscaping, and a walking and bike trail seamlessly connecting to the Sidney Torres Park via the 40 Arpent Trail, the Chenier Nature Park and Trail will serve as a vibrant centerpiece for the community. In addition to providing a scenic recreational space, the $3.6 million retention pond project, currently underway, aims to mitigate flood risks for local residents and businesses.
According to Rita Gue, President of the Meraux Foundation, "The creation of the Chenier Nature Park and Trail perfectly aligns with our mission of improving the quality of life in St. Bernard Parish. This initiative represents more than just the development of a beautiful park; it is part of a comprehensive strategy to improve recreation, stimulate the economy, create resilience against flooding, and protect our precious environment. We are honored to play a role in bringing this transformative project to fruition."
Parks and outdoor recreation are vital components in building stronger communities. They offer spaces for people to connect with nature, engage in physical activities, and foster social bonds. The Meraux Foundation firmly believes in the power of projects like the Chenier Nature Park and Trail to enhance the quality of life for residents, attract visitors, and drive economic growth in the region.
“Just like the land we donated for the Delacroix Pier and Shipyard, this park will give people a place to enjoy the riches St. Bernard’s natural environment has to offer,” said Gue.
The Meraux Foundation's land donation enabled the Parish to secure a Land and Water Conservation Grant for the Chenier Nature Park and Trail. By leveraging their resources and partnerships, the Meraux Foundation continues to make a profound impact on the development and prosperity of St. Bernard Parish.
St. Bernard Parish President Guy McInnis expressed gratitude to the Meraux Foundation, stating, "The Chenier Nature Park and Trail represents an exciting milestone for our community. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to the Meraux Foundation for their remarkable donation and their continued commitment to supporting transformative projects that enhance our residents' quality of life. This park and trail will serve as a cherished recreational space for generations to come."
The Meraux Foundation's contribution of 45 acres for the Chenier Nature Park and Trail complements their previous land donations, including for the 40 Arpent Wetland Observatory and the 40 Arpent Trail. The 40 Arpent Wetland Observatory offers a boathouse with a lagoon providing access to the 40 Arpent Canal, promoting various water activities and immersion in the natural surroundings. Additionally, the 40 Arpent Trail, part of the larger Mississippi River Trail, will ultimately connect St. Bernard Parish to Orleans and Plaquemines Parishes.
Just behind the 40 Arpent Observatory is a coastal restoration effort spearheaded by the Meraux Foundation in partnership with Ducks Unlimited and the St. Bernard Parish Coastal Division as well as Valero Meraux Refinery and Taurus Properties Inc. The terrace field project, supported by a NAWCA grant, is creating a linear group of islands behind the levee, bolstering wetland habitat and contributing to the area's overall ecological health.
Gue emphasized, "Leading in coastal restoration is a cornerstone of the Meraux Foundation's commitment to St. Bernard Parish. Through our ongoing initiatives, including the Chenier Nature Park and Trail, we strive to preserve our natural resources, protect our community from environmental challenges, and ensure a sustainable future for generations to come."
The Meraux Foundation looks forward to witnessing the St. Bernard Parish Chenier Nature Park and Trail flourish as a testament to the community's resilience, commitment to conservation, and collective vision for a prosperous future.