Perhaps you have heard of Girard Playground. It is more than just swings and slides. Girard Playground is a place filled with history and community spirit.
Girard Playground is on Irving Street in Metairie. It is one of eight Metairie playgrounds. Only half are named after local citizens. Girard Playground is officially Louis Girard Memorial Field. It honors Louis “Noot” Girard. He was the Jefferson Parish superintendent of recreation. He also served as commissioner of the Dixie Youth Baseball program. Sadly, he passed away suddenly in 1963 at age 39.
Girard Playground is home to the Vikings. They are known as the best teams in Jefferson Parish. The playground is a hub for residents of all ages. People come to participate in sports and classes. Visitors can enjoy the tot lot. They can also shoot hoops in the gym. Girard Playground offers fields for various recreation experiences. People can become a Viking.
Metairie experienced significant growth in the 1960s and 70s. The population doubled, then tripled, and then tripled again. This growth led to new infrastructure. New schools, churches, and playgrounds like Girard were constructed.
Johnny Bright Playground is also named for a dedicated individual. He was a supervisor of Metairie Playground. He was honored in 1965 for his work with Jefferson Parish youth.
Girard Playground is an integral part of Metairie’s recreational landscape. It offers sports facilities and community engagement. People can reserve facilities at Girard Playground. There is a three-hour minimum rental. That includes one hour of free set-up time. Alcohol requires a police detail at $40 an hour with a four-hour minimum. Bookings after 7 PM also need a police detail. Contact Patricia Tolar for reservations.
Girard Playground embodies community spirit. It offers sports and recreation. It stands as a tribute to Louis “Noot” Girard. It is a place where memories are made and the Viking spirit thrives.