Sidney Hutchinson Park, Walker, LA
What was Funded
In an ongoing initiative to expand services and infrastructure at Sidney Hutchinson Park, the community’s major recreational area, the city of Walker underwent a three part upgrade to add a new, fully inclusive play area, a 2 stage fitness space adjacent to the existing walking/running track, and a memorial to the city’s emergency workers, firemen, and police officers to the park The playground is adjacent to the community’s Challenger Field, a baseball field designed for use by people of all abilities. The playground, with a footprint of 98 by 116 square feet, features GTImpax, a unitary rubberized surface that is just one of the accessible features in the playground. The area includes swings, a variety of slides, a specially designed merry-go-round, climbing structures, and a pavilion with picnic tables and chairs for family gatherings. The fitness area includes specialized equipment for teens and adults that can be used for exercise to improve physical health. The memorial area includes the flags of the nation, state, the City of Walker and a fountain. The memorial will also be connected to the walking trail.
About the Match
Funds for construction represent a joint effort between the Louisiana Land and Water Conservation Fund, manufacturers, the firm that will construct the facility, Our Lady of the Lake of Livingston Parish, and the city. The LWCF contributed $250,000 to the project, and the rest was matched through other funders.
Park Reaction
Kelsey Murray, an assistant in Walker’s Finance Department and the city’s grant writer said the park will be a showplace that should attract visitors from a wide area. “This is one of the finest in the region and will be an award-winning facility. We have learned that it will be recognized as a National Demonstration Site award winner. This expands our ability to provide recreational opportunities for all, regardless of their abilities,” she added.
