Lake Charles Science Center and Educational Complex
Implementing Organization
State of Louisiana
Overview
DWH Project Funding
$7,000,000
Known Leveraged Funding
$0
Funding Organization
Natural Resource Damage Assessment Trustees (NRDA)
Funding Program
Natural Resource Damage Assessment NRDA
Details
Project Category
Recreational Use
Project Actions
Engineering and/or Construction
Targeted Resources
Recreational Resources
Project Description
The Project will be housed in a science center operated by the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries that will include immersive exhibits, walking trails, aquaria, and touch tanks to educate visitors on topics including, but not limited to, coastal habitats, Gulf of Mexico aquatic resources, fisheries/fisheries management, and restoration programs. Walking trails would support programs and/or signage to educate the public on Louisiana’s natural environment and wildlife. A fishing pier over Lake Charles will provide outdoor, ADA-compliant recreational activities to the public, and will be used for educational programs and catch and release fishing. The Project will be part of a larger Port Wonder Complex, that will be collocated with the Lake Charles Children's Museum. Although the Lake Charles SCEC and the children's museum would be distinct and separately funded projects, siting the Lake Charles SCEC adjacent to the children's museum would offer potential synergies, including enhanced visibility, improved access, and a location in a natural environment in the Lake Charles area and southwest Louisiana. The collocation of the two attractions within the Port Wonder facility would provide enhanced opportunities for the public to play and learn in one centralized area that is located near other recreational amenities, such as the Lake Charles waterfront and city parks, rather than visiting separate venues in different parts of the City.
Contact
Beth Golden(225) 342-4708
beth.golden@la.gov
Project Website
None
For official trustee information regarding the Deepwater Horizon NRDA, including information regarding the NRDA process and the status of projects, see https://www.gulfspillrestoration.noaa.gov/