NEWS

The Webster Parish Convention and Visitor’s Commission (CVC) recently announced its partnership with Louisiana Tech University’s Community Design Activism Center (CDAC) to assist in the planning of Miller Quarters Park.

Students who have enrolled in the Spring Quarter CDAC class will get a hands-on opportunity to create a master plan for the park, which is located behind the Minden Civic Center. These future architects will work closely with the Tourism Commission to begin a community space that will benefit future generations. CDAC was established in Louisiana Tech’s School of Design to provide service-learning opportunities for students and to support communities by envisioning design proposals.

“We are elated to partner with Louisiana Tech University and CDAC as we develop a long-term master plan for Miller Quarters Park that is rooted in cultural significance and community engagement,” said Ty Pendergrass, CVC chair. “This partnership is the first phase of several to develop an extensive strategy for the space, its economic impact to the community and ultimately to promote tourism within Webster Parish along the I-20 corridor.”

CDAC has been instrumental in developing visual site plans for projects around North Louisiana. “I’m looking forward to my students getting started,” said CDAC director Kevin Singh. “Miller Quarters Park is ideally located to become a hub of community activity for the residents of Webster Parish. CDAC is thankful to have the opportunity to work on this important project.” CDAC’s most recent projects include a site plan for the Ruston Skatepark, usage plan for newly purchased property by the Beidenharn Museum, and an adaptive reuse plan for the Swayze Natatorium in Monroe, Louisiana.

“I’m excited to see the Miller Quarters project enter the next phase of development,” said Serena Gray, CVC executive director. “This property will help us support some of our larger outdoor events and provide visitors with a venue that is easy to locate, while also enhancing the quality of life of our locals by providing them with additional amenities in our downtown area.”

“It’s a mutually beneficial partnership and I am proud of the work of the Commission and our partnership with Louisiana Tech to accomplish this,” Gray said.