Making a Difference since 1989
Recreation District No. 1, also known as Pelican Park, is an independent governmental agency governed by a seven-member Board of Commissioners. Established to serve the greater Mandeville community, the district operates independently of parish, state, and municipal governments.
Guided by a commitment to public service and community impact, the mission of the district is to enrich the lives of children, adults, and families by providing exceptional recreational facilities, diverse programs, and inclusive spaces that foster wellness, connection, memories, and lifelong enjoyment.
Early Beginnings
Pelican Park traces its roots to the mid-1980s, when a group of dedicated volunteers came together to create opportunities for children to play. Operating as 4th Ward Recreation, these volunteers organized youth sports programs using donated fields and gymnasiums provided by local community members and organizations.
In 1985, under the leadership of Mrs. Sue McGuire, the group secured a lease for 50 acres of unused state property, marking a pivotal step toward establishing a permanent home. Recognizing the scale of the effort, volunteers partnered with the Parish to reactivate Recreation District No. 1 in 1986. Mrs. McGuire was elected as chair, a five-member board was appointed to guide park development, and two staff members were hired to support operations. From the beginning of these grassroots, Recreation District No. 1 has grown into a premier, free-standing governmental agency serving the Northshore, now encompassing approximately 500 acres, supporting millions of annual visits, and offering a wide range of athletic, recreational, and community programming that continues to enhance quality of life for residents across the region.
Pelican Park Today
Today, Pelican Park is a premier regional destination featuring 32 lighted athletic fields, the Brown and White Pelican Gyms, and the 46,000-square-foot Castine Center. The park also offers paved roads, walking trails, and parking for more than 1,700 vehicles, along with amenities such as dog parks, a skatepark, sand volleyball courts, and an 18-hole disc golf course.
The Groves further enhances the park experience with an outdoor event stage, eight lighted pickleball courts, a covered fitness area, and scenic green space with walking paths, a boardwalk, and pond.
Pelican Park welcomes more than 3 million visitors annually through tournaments, events, and facility rentals that generate significant economic impact for the region.
Strong leadership and dedicated volunteers remain at the heart of the park success, continuing a legacy of service and community impact that began decades ago. Building on that strong foundation, Recreation District No. 1 has developed a comprehensive master plan and identified strategic priority projects that will guide future growth, enhance amenities, and ensure the Park remains a premier recreation destination for generations to come.
