The Webster Parish Convention & Visitors Commission (Tourism) has scheduled two public forums on July 18 to present project plans for Miller Quarters. The forums aim to gather public input on prioritizing development phases and to answer questions about the project.
Miller Quarters, purchased by the Commission in 2022, dates back to the 1930s when Joe Miller built 60 low-income houses and rented them for $5 a week. The new development plan includes a small museum to educate the public about this history.
The proposed design features a promenade at the main entrance and various walking and biking trails offering different experiences throughout the park. Water features such as bridges and low-head dam barriers will help with flood management and provide crossing points. An amphitheater, playground with a water fountain pad, and multiple restroom facilities are also part of the plan. The design includes entrances from various sides of the park and explores additional parking options.
Shaded areas at a food truck pavilion, a dog park with separate zones for small and large dogs, and the use of natural materials like bald cypress and raw steel aim to create a cohesive look that reflects the area’s history. The architecture will mirror local styles, including shotgun houses and butterfly roofs.
Projected costs for the park range from $7 million to $10 million, with the project designed to be built in stages. Executive Director Serena Gray is researching grants and potential sponsorships to fund the project. “We went into this project saying, ‘Let’s dream big, and if we need to scale it back, we can,’” said Gray.
The forums will be held at the Minden Community House, located at 711 Gladney Street, on Thursday, July 18. The first forum will take place from 10-11 AM, and the second from 5:30-6:30 PM. The public is encouraged to participate in this discussion about the future of Miller Quarters park.