Lake Charles officials provided a sneak peak of the newly built Millennium Park on Wednesday. The facility will officially open at 10 a.m. Saturday with a ceremony.

A large part of the park, built in 2000, was destroyed by fire in January 2011. Donations were collected for planning and materials, and the park was rebuilt in the same spot off Bord Du Lac Drive.

In December, Mayor Randy Roach’s administration opened the park briefly for children to get a sample of the fun that awaited them. City officials closed it due to continued construction.

Now that the project is finished, Roach said it is time for children and their families to enjoy what will be one of the region’s premier recreation areas.

“It is bigger and better than ever. We want to spread the word that it is a wonderful facility and a great park,” Roach said. “There is always talk about downtown development, restaurants and streetscape. Today, talk is about children.”

Roach said a third phase of upgrades is being considered at the park. The administration is devoted to keeping the land around the park designated a public space.

District A City Councilman Marshall Simien said the park is a good investment for the region. “It is the living room for the community and a great place for all our children to meet and play,” he said.

Kay Barnett, chairwoman of the Rebuilding Millennium Park committee, said the finished product is a good example of the type of character residents in Southwest Louisiana display every day.

“A lot of times when you start out with a project you want it to be bigger and better, but that is not always the case. This park is, and it is wonderful,” she said. “It is just amazing how the community came together for this park.”

Millennium Park rules

• The park is designed for children ages 5-12.

• Adult supervision is required.

• The tot lot area is for children ages 2-5.

• No smoking.

• Shoes must be worn at all times.

• No high heels.

• No food or drinks allowed in the play areas.

(Rick Hickman / American Press)

(Rick Hickman / American Press)

Rick Hickman