Lafrenier Park is a 155 acre park in the midst of one of Jefferson Parish's most developed areas. The park is a suburban oasis. It is centrally located, yet large enough to afford a substantial measure of escape from the aggravations of its urbanized surroundings.
Lafreniere is many things to many people. To some, it is a quiet stroll on the boardwalk that winds through the wooded area of the park. To others, it affords safe and attractive surroundings for a walk or run. And to others it is a place for a hard fought soccer match or a free summer concert.
Lafraniere isn't nearly as big as City Park. And, being essentially
man made, it lacks the wilderness appeal of the state parks. But to the
residents of Metairie and Kenner, Lafraniere Park is a treasure. The park
is well layed out, readily accessible, and very well maintained.
Near the center of the park is a small wildlife habitat, complete with waterways, boardwalks and a gazebo. Among the parks many permanent residents are ducks, geese and an occasional nutria. Lafrenier also provides a home for many species of wild birds, the most conspicuous being egrets.
Although this nature area is not very large, it is well designed to create a quiet diversion.
One of the most popular attractions at Lafrenier is a two mile asphalt track. For most of its length the track runs along the outside perimeter of the park. Two physical fitness stations, complete with a variety of exercise structures, are located at the beginning and one mile marker of the track.
The track is intersected by streets at only three points, so that walkers and runners can concentrate on something other than avoiding traffic. Skates, skateboards and rollerblades are not allowed on the track to further enhance safety.
The track is well illuminated after dark and well utilized right up until closing time at 10:00 pm. There is a general feeling of safety, even after dark. The relatively small size of the park, the large number of people using it during all open hours, and the frequent passage of park patrol vehicles discourage would be criminals. However in todays world, one must be mindful that crime can occur anywhere. It is always safer to be in a group after nightfall, even in apparently safe environs.
EventsLafreniere Park plays host to a variety of events from parties to concerts in its multi-purpose buildings. Visitor to the park are often treated to a free concert featuring local talent at the big gazebo in the middle of the park.
If you've ever been to Lafrienere on a Saturday or Sunday morning, you know that soccer is the highlighted activitity. Lafrieniere has several soccer fields and all are put to good use in the morning and early afternoon hours on the weekends.
Lafieniere is well equiped for an outdoor get together with family or friends. A large picnic area features tables and barbecue pits. Some of the picnic areas are covered.
Lafreniere Park is a reflection of the spirit of the East Bank. It projects an image of a population which is well motivated, high spirited, and prosperous. It's not just the landscaping or the buildings which project this image, but the people you find there.
There's much more to come on Laferniere Park so stay tuned....