Ethel Park

Several local partners are working together to redevelop a vacant lot in the town of Washington across from the Town Hall into a community garden/green space called Ethel Park. Currently, the lot is a sad patch of grass and trash which previously housed a historic building. Although the historic building was, unfortunately, relocated, the property has since been purchased by generous citizens and donated to the town for the exclusive purpose of establishing a greenspace. The plan entails planting native plants/trees around a square anchored by a unique water feature, surrounded by benches, drinking fountains, and other necessities for enjoying a bit of nature in the middle of town. We will also establish kiosks with information for a historic walking tour and other town information for residents and visitors, display art/sculptures by local artists, and establish one or more "Little Libraries" with free books available for borrowing or trading. Future plans also include a small pavilion for hosting events such as a farmers market and intimate concerts, as well as plans to incorporate the park into a larger town park via walking trails, which would span between the Steamboat Turn-Around, the community center, and the nearby anticipated play area.

We are in the process of securing a project supervisor. We are also working with the Realtor Association of Acadiana and the Washington Garden Club, each of which has provided small grants to get the project off the ground. Once seed money is secured, we will begin purchasing plants and other materials which are not donated. We will also work with local artists, carpenters, and vendors to create unique installations. We would be grateful for donations of materials, time, and money. The more we raise, the better Ethel Park will be.

Washington lost a real treasure when one of its historic homes was moved from the site - located directly across the street from the Town Hall in the center town. Currently residents and visitors are greeted by an empty lot. We are fortunate to have generous citizens who recognized the problem created by this eyesore and purchased the empty lot to donate to the town. We aim to create a space with which we can proudly welcome everyone to our town.

Ethel Park will present an engaging outdoor space for both residents and tourists. Visitors will be able to enjoy and learn about local flora in a peaceful setting, while also finding information about the town’s history and the community. Children and adults alike will find pleasure in art/sculpture installations by local artists, while also having the opportunity to gather for periodic events such as farmers’ markets, presentations, and concerts.