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Lamar University presents plan to repurpose Pleasure Island golf course into public green space
Summary
Lamar University representatives updated the Port Arthur City Council on a memorandum of understanding to convert nine holes of the former Pleasure Island Golf Course into an accessible green space with trails, habitat restoration, and flood‑mitigation features.
Devon Shagua of Lamar University told the Port Arthur City Council on Aug. 26 that a team assembled under a memorandum of understanding tied to Resolution 24-212 is proposing to repurpose nine holes of the former Pleasure Island Golf Course into an accessible multiuse green space.
Shagua said the plan would add trails, picnic areas, restroom facilities, improved pond and pump infrastructure, and native plantings aimed at creating habitat for resident and migrating birds. “We’re revamping the ecological landscape into a vibrant habitat for native and migrating birds,” Shagua said, and added the changes would also create green infrastructure that can reduce stormwater runoff and help protect surrounding development.
The presentation summarized outreach and technical work conducted by university classes and partner organizations. Shagua said the project team included Port Arthur staff and representatives from local organizations; he also credited a bird blind installed by the Golden Triangle Audubon Society and cited tourism data from the Port Arthur Visitor’s Bureau to argue for economic gains from birding and other nature‑based visitation.
Council member Hamilton and other council members expressed support for further involvement by the university and for keeping momentum on the project. Hamilton called the initiative a “huge type of project” for students and the community and asked staff to share additional conceptual designs produced by visiting classes.
Shagua described near‑term technical tasks: clearing invasive plants that currently obscure site elevations, repairing or replacing pond pump equipment to restore water flow and reduce mosquito habitat, adjusting paths to provide a buffer around the clubhouse if it is used as an event center, and adding a restroom. He also said the team has conceptual plans for a five‑year tree‑planting program and for educational programming tied to wildlife and birding.
Council members and staff discussed coordination needs and next steps but did not vote on any matter during this presentation. The item was offered as an informational update to the council; Shagua said the team will continue design and community engagement and will work with the city on implementation and funding pathways.
The presentation referenced the MOU associated with Resolution 24-212 and invited continued city support for partnership and technical work.
