Budget cuts are on the way, which is why the news recently from St. Martin Parish was great for the Teche Area.

The parish, city of St. Martinville and the state committed to an agreement that aims to keep the natural beauty and integrity for years to come at Longfellow-Evangeline State Historic Site in St. Martinville.

St. Martinville Mayor Thomas Nelson, among others, was pleased with the joint venture.

“We are doing what is in the best interest of the public,” Nelson said Sunday in The Daily Iberian, noting the deal takes on even more importance considering the state of financial affairs in Louisiana. More cuts could be coming to the state park budget.

“If we don’t step in, it could be a problem with the state in the situation it is in,” the mayor said.

The agreement was made public Jan. 21. It provides for grounds maintenance by city-parish employees at the site with equipment and supplies provided by the parish and personnel supplied by the city.

The historical site started as the Olivier Plantation in the 1920s, then as a Civilian Conservation Corps site before it was designated the first Louisiana state park in 1934. During World War II, it served as a German prisoner-of-war camp.

It was designated a State Historic Site in 1984.

There is much to do to improve it, according to Park Manager Christi Disher, who said one of the key projects at one end of the park is an amphitheater that would serve as an added attraction.

“It would allow us to expand our programming a bit,” Disher said, adding concerts and plays could be performed.

About half of the site’s visitors are from out-of-state, she said. 

St. Martin Parish President Guy Cormier said he is well aware of the site’s economic impact and its historical significance that draws tourists like a magnet.

That city, parish and state leaders have agreed to ensure it stays open and as scenic as it is today is a positive step for this area.

DON SHOOPMAN

SENIOR NEWS EDITOR