City staff told the New Iberia City Council that construction of the new skate park, part of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) City Park Improvements Project, has reached substantial completion and asked the council to approve the certificate of substantial completion.

A staff representative said the skate park surface and features are complete but that punch-list work remains around the park: sidewalks, parking, grading and cleanup. "The skate park itself is actually 100% finished, but we do have some sidewalks and parking and just some cleanup that they have to address," the staff member said. The site remains secured with fencing while contractors complete the punch list; public works will perform in-kind work to remove the fence and finish backdressing around edges.

Council members asked about future lighting and security. Staff said lighting was explored but the project prioritized sidewalks and parking in the current budget; lighting could be added later but was not included in the current contract. The staff member noted there are six existing light poles near the pool and an existing police camera across from the skate park. Council members also confirmed plans to hydroseed embankments and noted four new paved parking spaces will be installed near the park entrance.

The council approved the certificate of substantial completion so liability would shift from the contractor once the fence comes down. Staff said a ribbon-cutting and community events are expected once punch-list items are finished.

Ending: Residents and users were encouraged to check the park once the fence is removed and staff coordinates a completion date for final punch-list work.