For now, Lake Bistineau State Park will remain open.
Rep. Gene Reynolds, District 10, met with Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Secretary Robert Barham Tuesday to keep the park open.
“Lake Bistineau State Park will not close July 1,” he said, “however, money is very tight and there could be another five percent cut that would close some parks. He is looking at public/private partnerships and maybe some rate hikes to offset the deep cuts that have occurred over the last nine years.”
He says maintenance remains a concern and personnel will still be a challenge.
“Despite the problems, he remains positive,” Reynolds said. “I offered my help and will work with him to keep the parks open and operating efficiently.”
Following the special session that ended June 23, he said projected cuts for state parks and recreation include nearly $1.5 million. Keeping the park open was tied into generating more revenue for the state, but the money they had to work with was spread among K-12, TOPS and hospitals.