Moncus Park is thrilled to announce the opening of two features in the newly constructed play area: the Ochsner Lafayette General Playground and the Our Lady of Lourdes Interactive Water Adventure, beginning at noon on Saturday, June 11.
Nestled under the oaks past the entrance to Moncus Park, these Louisiana-Themed play features include two fully accessible playgrounds and a fun-for-all-ages Interactive Water Adventure. The space is equipped with a newly constructed restroom facility and two changing rooms. To access the Park and new play features keep right at the roundabout off Johnston Street and park in the paved lot.
The Ochsner Lafayette General Playground features nature-inspired structures and interactive pieces, surrounded by custom rubber surfacing that embodies a Louisiana swamp scene. The playground includes separate areas for younger and older children and a swing set. With inclusivity and accessibility, a priority in design, this creative and dynamic playground can be enjoyed by everyone regardless of age or ability.
“The natural beauty of Moncus Park creates an optimal landscape for improving the health and well-being of the people of Acadiana, which aligns with our vision to make Louisiana a healthier state. The inclusive playground celebrates individuality and encourages play, and we are honored to be a part of something so meaningful,” said Ochsner Lafayette General CEO Patrick W. Gandy, Jr.
The Our Lady of Lourdes 5,100 square feet Interactive Water Adventure is an immersive experience fountain with a sculptural concrete pirogue and alligator that evoke the classic character of the Acadiana landscape. Rows of vertical jets suggest the “ripple” radiating out from the abstract pirogue. Another group of arching jets from the belly of the alligator, expanding and shrinking as it “breathes.” Throughout the large wet deck, another set of custom jets shoots up water that mimics bald cypress “knees.” The interactive water feature was designed by Fluidity Design Consultants, a global leader in water feature design out of Los Angeles founded by Jim Garland, a UL Lafayette architecture graduate.
“The Moncus Park interactive water adventure will play a significant role in providing safe activities and opportunities for Lafayette residents to play outdoors. We are proud of the positive impact this gift will have locally, regionally, and beyond,” said Kathy Healy-Collier, President of Our Lady of Lourdes.
There is no fee to enter the Ochsner Lafayette General Playground or the Our Lady of Lourdes Interactive Water Adventure. The third feature in Moncus Park’s play area, the Savoy Family Treehouse, will open later this month.