onsdag den 2. marts 2011

Visit Lafreniere Park In Metairie Louisiana

By David Mims


Lafreniere Park is to New Orleans as Central Park is to New York City. Pronounced lah-fren-YERE, the 155-acre green space is located at 3000 Downs Boulevard in Metairie, Louisiana. The property was originally part of a 5,000 acre land grant to Nicolas Chauvin de la Freniere from Jean-Baptiste le Moyne, Sieur de Bienville. Through generations of that family, the property at one time was the location of Jefferson Downs Racetrack. After being destroyed by Hurricane Betsy in 1965, the track was moved to another location. This left a vacant area on which the community members eventually rallied to build their park project.

Paid for with a 5-million dollar bond issue, and a matching federal grant, the project was well designed and planned. It created a beautiful, green area at which its citizens could relax and play. Construction began in 1977, and it was dedicated about five years later. Some parts of the original plan were never built, but the finished project affords an opportunity for its visitors to enjoy active and passive recreation.

A hilly, tree-dotted expanse, the meadow area is one place where many people gather to celebrate special events such as the Fourth of July. Picnics are held at many shelters on the property. Most have available electricity and water, and can be reserved through the office.

Water designs, built into the landscape, enhance the appearance and utility of the park. There is a lovely waterfall, and a 20-acre lagoon. Although the entire park is designated as a sanctuary for birds, Marsh Island is a place to view and feed animals, such as geese, ducks, and swans. Observing native plants and animals is an activity that many people enjoy from the gazebo on an elevated walkway.

The memorial garden honors children whose lives were shortened for any reason. The symmetrical plan resembles a formal, French garden. Two other parts of the property specifically for children are the Tot Playgrounds. The equipment is ADA compliant and located near the park office and the park carousel.

Some other amenities for recreation are soccer and softball fields, a 2-mile jogging track, and the Frisbee golf course. The Pavilion, an 80-foot wide structure, the Foundation Center, and the Carousel, are all places for holding special events. The carousel, a favorite among many visitors, holds a tiger, a zebra, 30 movable horses, and 2 chariots.

A convenient hotel choice when visiting Lafreniere Park is the Holiday Inn in Metairie. Near the New Orleans Airport, it offers easy access to attractions in Jefferson Parish. A smoke-free hotel, it provides all amenities needed for business travel, weekend trips, or extended stays. Some services offered are outdoor pool, guest laundry, fitness center, room service, free kid meals at the on-site grill, in-room coffee maker, refrigerator, and 32-inch TV, gift shop, and complimentary airport shuttle and Wi-Fi.




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