Yesterday, St. Charles Parish President Matthew Jewell, parish officials, community leaders, and Valero representatives proudly celebrated the ribbon cutting for the newly renovated East Bank Bridge Park, located at 13244 River Road in Destrehan. 

After nearly 15 years without significant upgrades, the East Bank Bridge Park has been completely revitalized. The newly completed improvements now mirror those made at the West Bank Bridge Park, providing state-of-the-art facilities for the community.

“This project represents more than just new fields and facilities; it’s about community,” said Parish President Matthew Jewell. “For nearly forty years, the East Bank Bridge Park has been a place where families gather, friendships are built, and memories are made. With these improvements, we’re ensuring that tradition continues for generations to come. I’m grateful to our parish, state, and industrial partners, especially Valero St. Charles Refinery, for helping make this vision a reality.”

The East Bank Bridge Park improvements include new synthetic turf infields on both fields, freshly sodded outfields with an irrigation system, and upgraded fencing, backstops, and dugouts. The project also features new light poles and energy-efficient LED fixtures at the tennis courts, Field 1, and Field 2. In addition, the park now offers two new tennis courts, two pickleball courts, a batting cage, and a basketball court, providing residents with even more opportunities to stay active and enjoy the space.

Valero St. Charles contributed $500,000 toward the project, making the construction of the two new turf infields possible. The project was designed by Civil and Environmental Consulting Engineers of Luling and constructed by Jones Construction Solutions, LLC. Funding for this project came from multiple sources, including $750,000 from the Louisiana Department of the Treasury, Parish funds, and a generous contribution from Valero St. Charles.

“When we broke ground here last November, we set out to create a facility that matches the passion that our residents have for recreation,” Director Duane Foret said. “Thanks to the incredible teamwork between our local government, state partners, and private supporters, we were able to accomplish just that.”

The East Bank Bridge Park is now open for public use. Park hours are 5:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.