Airline Highway Park Set for Major Sports Complex
BREC leaders Janet Simmons and Maurice Velasquez are moving from vision to action across East Baton Rouge Parish.
One of the largest projects underway is at Airline Highway Park. The plan calls for a tournament-level baseball complex with multiple fields, a multi-sport field, concessions, and seating. The goal is simple. Make Baton Rouge a destination for competitive baseball.
Right now, families often travel outside the parish for high-level play. This complex aims to change that. The park’s location near Interstate 10 and Interstate 12 makes it easy to access from across the region.
The site will also include a FEMA-funded safe house. The structure will function as an indoor sports facility during normal operations, with space for basketball and pickleball. During emergencies, it will convert into a shelter of last resort.
A second FEMA-supported facility is planned for Memorial Park.
Neighborhood Parks and Historic Preservation
While Airline is a major investment, BREC is also focusing on smaller neighborhood parks.
Palomino Park in Central recently reopened with a refurbished playground and updated features. Leaders say small upgrades such as new equipment, fresh paint and landscaping can transform a park’s feel overnight.
At Magnolia Mound, improvements are also underway. The historic site is seeing increased programming, structural upgrades, and expanded educational opportunities. Officials report a noticeable uptick in activity and community engagement.
Farr Park Renovations and Equestrian Growth
At Farr Park, renovations are bringing new energy to one of BREC’s most unique facilities.
The 300-acre property includes an equestrian center and RV campground with 108 sites. Farr Park houses 65 horses and offers riding lessons, adaptive programs, summer camps and trail rides. Renovations to stalls and the main structure will allow the park to host more overnight horse shows and large events.
Expanded Security and Rapid Response
BREC has also activated a 24/7 command center to monitor more than 1,000 park cameras. Mobile camera towers are being deployed across high-traffic parks to enhance visibility and response times.
The agency’s Rapid Response program has already resolved more than 90 percent of submitted tickets. Residents can report issues by calling 225-310-BREC or visiting rapid.brec.org.
With large-scale construction, neighborhood upgrades, and expanded safety measures, BREC is investing at every level across Baton Rouge.