A once-vacant lot in New Iberia has transformed into a local park thanks to a $350,000 community-driven project.
The City of New Iberia cut the ribbon on Ann Street Park, celebrating the city’s first-ever neighborhood pocket park. Located at the corner of Ann Street and Twenty Arpent Road, the park represents collaboration between local leaders, residents, and organizations to bring more recreational access to the area.
“They’ve been getting a lot of activity,” said Ronald Davis, New Iberia City Councilman for District 5. “There’s some slides, some merry-go-round, a xylophone over there. And of course, the almighty basketball court—that’s where there’s most of the activity.”
Designed by local architect David Allain, the park was made possible with support from the Downtown Neighborhood Association and community advocates who saw an opportunity to turn unused land into a place for play and connection.
“Kids who don’t have basketball hoops and stuff at their own house get a chance to just play with other kids,” said Benjamin Kerlegan, a local high school sophomore and basketball team member who already feels the impact of the new space.
For Bryce Hypolite, president of the Downtown Neighborhood Association, the project was personal. “I left a life of leisure to come to walking a life of purpose, and I’m doing all I can to help this community grow,” he said.
With features like a water fountain, basketball court, and various play structures, Ann Street Park is already a hub for neighborhood activity. Future upgrades are planned, making this just the beginning of the park’s potential. For updates and ways to get involved, visit the City of New Iberia’s official website.
