NEW ORLEANS — A planned $75 million Regional Aquatics Center at Hope Haven could become one of the Gulf South’s major destinations for competitive swimming, bringing thousands of visitors to Jefferson Parish and generating millions in spending for the Greater New Orleans economy.
The project is being designed to transform part of the historic Hope Haven campus in Marrero, once home to an orphanage, into a modern aquatic facility with three indoor pools, seating for 1,500 spectators and space for swim lessons, rehabilitation and workforce training. The project has attracted $34 million in public and private commitments so far as fundraising continues.
Jefferson Parish, Jefferson Community Foundation and the YMCA of Greater New Orleans are working with community partners to develop the center as both a year-round resource for local residents and a destination for competitive swimming events that could attract athletes and visitors from across the region.
A New Destination for Sports Tourism
The economic potential extends well beyond the swimming pools…