The Webster Parish Convention & Visitors Commission held two public forums on July 18 to present development plans for Miller Quarters Park and gather feedback from the community. Representatives from Parish Line Architects and CARBO Landscape Architecture provided a detailed slideshow illustrating the proposed areas and features of the project.
The projected costs for the park range from $7 million to $10 million, with plans to build the park in stages. Notably, Miller Quarters is owned and will be developed by the Commission, using funds from occupancy taxes collected from visitors. “This is a Tourism project. The funds that we used to purchase this project were funds that had been saved based on the revenue that occupancy taxes provide for our community,” said Tourism Executive Director Serena Gray. “Occupancy taxes are taxes paid by visitors. It’s visitors who come into Webster Parish and stay at our hotels, motels, camp sites, and our short-term rentals. Those taxes are collected to help Tourism establish a marketing plan that encourages increased visitation to our community.”
Beyond occupancy tax revenue, the Commission is exploring additional funding options, including grants and sponsorships. “For this to be a reality, it’s going to take a joint effort between private funding and grants,” said Commission Chairman Ty Pendergrass.
The project aims to be inclusive and community-driven, with plans to post architectural designs and feedback forms on the Tourism website. “We want to hear what you want to see. We want to be creative. We want to be inclusive. We want this to be a beautiful asset to our community,” Gray added.
Mayor Nick Cox emphasized that the project does not use city funds. “This is not the city’s money or the city’s project. This is Tourism, and any money they raise really has no reflection on the city’s budget. That being said, this is good for the city in my opinion. This will be an asset to the City of Minden and to Webster Parish.”
The park’s design includes a promenade, walking and biking trails, water features, an amphitheater, a playground with a water fountain pad, and multiple restroom facilities. Shaded areas at a food truck pavilion, a dog park with separate zones for small and large dogs, and the use of natural materials aim to reflect the area’s history and aesthetic. The architecture will feature local styles, including shotgun houses and butterfly roofs.
Miller Quarters, purchased by the Commission in 2022, has historical significance dating back to the 1930s when Joe Miller built 60 low-income houses. The new plan includes a small museum to educate the public about this history.
The development of Miller Quarters Park promises to enhance the community’s recreational options while preserving its historical significance. The Commission’s proactive approach to funding and community engagement highlights its commitment to creating a valuable asset for Webster Parish.
Currently, the park is free to use, though reservations are required. Once developed, a fee will be charged. For more information about reserving the park, contact the Tourism office at 318-377-4240.
