New Bucktown Marsh Boardwalk: Model for Sustainable Tourism and Livable Neighborhoods
An exciting new public infrastructure project opened in May to the public along Lake Pontchartrain. It is the new Bucktown Wetlands Boardwalk located within a 3.4-acre man-made marsh in Jefferson Parish near the 17thStreet Canal. Right in our own” backyard”, residents and visitors will now be able to learn about and experience- first-hand- a beautiful coastal marsh, coastal restoration and wildlife habitat along the shores of the stunning Lake Pontchartrain. The 1000 foot boardwalk includes benches, bird watching stands and informative, educational signs about this unique nature preserve. The $1.7 million boardwalk project, funded by Jefferson Parish, also includes two recreational pavilions. Future parish plans, when funding is identified, includes a permanent space for the Bucktown Seafood Market, a children’s play space, a “great lawn” similar to that in City Park and the return of a “footbridge” over the 17th Street Canal, connecting Jefferson and Orleans parishes.
Envisioned next to the boardwalk between Bucktown Harbor and the Bonnabel boat launch, is the creation of a “living shoreline” of marsh that will provide a more resilient levee system and shoreline. A breakwater will be built off the shore with aquatic plant life filled in behind it. These new tidal wetlands will reduce the storm surge off the lake, improve water quality and provide habitat for birds, fish, crab and other wildlife. The marsh will also provide new waterways that provide protection from wind and waves for kayaks and other smaller boats.
The impressive 34 acre Bucktown Wetlands Preserve and Harbor is a new vision for sustainable tourism and outdoor recreation in the region that provides a great model for future infrastructure investments that enhance the resiliency, quality of life, and natural environment for both residents and visitors.
For more information about The Great Delta Tours, go to www.thegreatdeltatours.com.
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