News Announcing Launch of the City-Brooks Park & Lakes Vision Planning Process

Baton Rouge, LouisianaFeb 05, 2026Building upon ongoing work with City-Brooks Park and University Lakes, a study is being conducted regarding a recommendation for a governance structure, a new City-Brooks Park master plan, and Wampold concept design. Led by BREC and interdisciplinary architecture, planning, landscape, and design firm Sasaki, the project is bolstered by the guidance of an 11-member advisory committee of stakeholders from BREC and local organizations and institutions.  

The project brings together three distinct yet interrelated efforts—the study of the University Lakes System Governance and Operation and Maintenance Plan, the Wampold Beach Concept Design, and the City-Brooks Park Master Plan. By integrating these concurrently developing components, Sasaki aims to streamline the tasks of BREC and chart a coordinated, long-term vision for the development and stewardship of this space. 

 City-Brooks Park Master Plan  

Sasaki is working on a master plan that will define a long-term vision for City-Brooks Park, and will encompass ongoing programmatic uses such as museum expansions, golf improvements, circulation connections, and other recreational assets. Based on in-depth site analysis, the master plan will further refine key challenges and considerations in the effort to develop a cohesive, dynamic central park for East Baton Rouge Parish. 

 

The Study of the University Lakes System Governance and O+M Plan  

The Governance and O+M Plan establishes a recommended clear framework for the stewardship of the 360-acre University Lakes system. Drawing upon research on existing conditions, peer governance models and projected operation and maintenance needs, Sasaki will facilitate conversations toward a preferred governance structure and financial roadmap that ensures the sustainable future of the park.  

Wampold Beach Concept Design 

The project continues to expand on the 2021 concept design and July 2025 proposed dredge placement for Wampold Beach, with the goal of developing a shovel-ready concept design that aligns with the current dredging conditions.  

The three plans are unfolding across a staggered timeline, and stakeholder meetings will engage with them holistically, addressing questions and challenges that correspond to the varied stages of each project.  

The engagement efforts will draw upon both focused conversations with target stakeholders as well as broad community input. Community engagement programs will take place throughout the spring and summer of 2026, beginning with an online survey and followed by two public meetings.  

The project team is in the process of launching a dedicated BREC webpage to house all project information; in the interim, questions may be directed to info@brec.org. 

First Public Survey 

The first public survey is available here and will be open through February 27th. We encourage community members to participate and share with others who live, work, and play here. Help us transform City-Brooks Park into a central park for East Baton Rouge Parish!