Sw Louisiana News

On March 19, Lake Charles Mayor Nic Hunter and District B Councilwoman Luvertha August, along with representatives from the City of Lake Charles Community Services Department, gathered at the former Golden Arms Apartments on 3rd Street to announce a proposal to relocate Purple Heart Recreation Center to the property.

The Purple Heart Recreation Center, currently located on Avenue H at the Chennault campus, was severely damaged by Hurricane Laura in 2020 and has remained vacant since then. FEMA recently allocated funds to the City of Lake Charles for a complete replacement of the recreation center.

Mayor Nic Hunter stated, “Working through the FEMA 428 program, which allows municipalities to take a look at their city and determine the best location to rebuild, we took a holistic look at the City of Lake Charles as it is today. We recognize that an asset like Purple Heart is absolutely needed, but a more centrally located facility would provide us the opportunity to better serve our community.” He added that Councilwoman Luvertha August was instrumental in advocating for returning Purple Heart to service.

The City has entered into discussions with the Lake Charles Housing Authority to purchase the Golden Arms property. This site is near several recreational amenities including the 2nd Avenue Pool and LCB Cougar Stadium.

Councilwoman Luvertha August commented, “With all of the existing recreational amenities already in place in this area, adding Purple Heart Recreation Center really creates a unique recreational complex.”

Plans for the new center include facilities such as a basketball gym with volleyball capabilities and full weight and aerobics rooms. A mural honoring local Purple Heart recipients will also be featured inside.

The project is currently in its preliminary design phase with groundbreaking anticipated in late 2025.

For more information about developments from the City of Lake Charles, visit their official website or social media pages.