Council approves architect contract for East Bank Bridge Park gymnasium; members discuss emergency and multiuse roles

The St. Charles Parish Council on May 5 approved an ordinance (file number 2025-0127) authorizing architectural services with Murray Architects Inc. for the East Bank Bridge Park gymnasium project (project PRG 2025) in the amount of $356,901.

Why it matters: Council members described an ongoing shortage of indoor gym space in the parish; the new facility is intended to expand recreational programming for youth, adults, seniors, and special athletes and to provide multiuse capacity that could support emergency or shelter operations if needed.

Details: County staff said the 2012 master plan and a 2023 update identified gym space as a top need, along with a boat launch on the West Bank. The proposed gym would include programming space and amenities such as a permanent restroom and possibly a basketball court and batting cage if funding permits. Council members asked whether the facility would be usable during storms and for emergency operations; staff indicated the design would consider durability and multiuse needs, while shelters would still use existing facilities such as the DuFrent Center for some emergency functions.

Outcome: The council voted unanimously to approve the architectural services agreement.

Quotes (from the record): “This is about functionality. It's not gonna be nearly multi use as our wonderful community center on the West Bank,” said project staff. Councilman Moberly asked whether the gym “is gonna be a multiuse facility” and whether it could be used in hurricanes; staff said the design will account for those needs.

Where this goes next: Administration will proceed with architectural design; construction funding will be considered in future capital planning.