As part of its ongoing commitment to enhancing recreational opportunities parish-wide, the St. Charles Parish Parks and Recreation Department has announced the permanent closure of Good Hope Park in Norco. As a result, Shell Norco will purchase the property, which is located along the site’s fenceline, for $100,000.
This decision comes as Parks and Recreation continues to evaluate the best allocation of resources to meet the growing and changing recreational needs of the parish community. In recent years, the Parish has made targeted investments totaling nearly $1.5 million in nearby facilities such as Bethune Park, Sacred Heart, and the Spillway Park, enhancing amenities, and creating more functional spaces for Norco residents.
The funds from the Good Hope purchase will go toward additional improvements at Bethune Park to complement Shell's $500,000 investment made in 2025.
“Our department is committed to making continued improvements at Bethune Park, ensuring we provide high-quality, recreational spaces that serve residents of all ages, abilities, and interests,” said St. Charles Parish President Matthew Jewell. “Closing Good Hope Park was a difficult decision, but one that allows us to better focus our resources on regional parks that offer more amenities and serve a broader population.”
In the coming weeks, residents can expect to see barricades placed at the park entrance and signage indicating the park’s permanent closure. The park will no longer be maintained by the Parish, and public access will be restricted. Shell Norco will manage ongoing landscaping needs for the property.
Nearby parks available to residents include:
These locations feature amenities such as playgrounds, walking trails, fishing, sports fields, batting cages, basketball courts, pavilions, and green spaces designed for a variety of recreational uses.
The Parks and Recreation Department remains committed to building a park system that benefits the greatest number of residents while ensuring sustainability and growth for years to come.
