The Calcasieu Parish Police Jury plans to take the lead in an Interstate 10 beautification project and announced an $11 million “conditional award” that could help fund the Greinwich Terrace Stormwater Management Project.

Thursday’s meeting kicked off with the Police Jury’s recognition of Sulphur Parks and Recreation for its well-executed hosting of the LHSAA State Softball Championship since 2001, the baseball championship since 2014 and the state swim meet since 2019.

Daryl Burkel was honored for his dedicated leadership during his seven years as president of McNeese State University — a tenure that included the challenges of COVID, two hurricanes, an ice storm and flood.

Before jurors OK’d advertising for a design firm to work on a master plan for Gateway Calcasieu — an Interstate 10 enhancement master planning project — Parish Administrator Bryan Beam offered details.

“We’re seeking proposals for a firm that would work with the parish for a plan that would be phased in over time,” Beam said about the beautification plan.

It could include corridor enhancement such as improvements to entering the parish, removing undergrowth along the right of way and making interchange improvements. The plan has nothing to do with road or bridge improvements. Recommendations, engineering and associated cost would come from a master plan developed by the designer.  Municipalities, residents and private companies would be invited to help with planning and funding. Other funding sources could come from foundations and the federal government.

Chris Landry, District 7, said this is something the Police Jury has been talking about for 20 years.

“You only get one chance to make a first impression,” he said.

Parish Grant Director Jennifer Cobian, reported to the Police Jury on an $11 million “conditional award” that could provide for grant management, and technical services necessary to repurpose the Greinwich Terrace Bayou into a stormwater retention area. This program is separate from the state’s buyout program.

The Police Jury also moved to condemn and remove the following properties in 30 days: 487 West Telephone Rd., 3158 Mesa Lane, 1080 Park Rd. in Moss Bluff,  2966, 902 Spanish Trail In Lake Charles; 214 Thicket Rd., 317 Thicket Rd., 110 Juniper Rd., 115 Juniper Rd., 426 Juniper Rd., 2575 Ollinz Morgan Rd. and 627 Evans Rd. in Sulphur. A 30-day deferral was granted for three properties.