Parish leaders pledged more than $2 million in funding a St. John the Baptist Parish Parks and Recreation project netting upgrades at a dozen locations across the region.

Plans of two new spray parks, a dog park, safer playing surfaces and upgraded recreation fields highlight the effort that will impact communities on both banks of the Mississippi River.

Local officials said the right things, noting the project’s upgrades improve parish infrastructure and serve as an investment into area youth.

However, the most aggressive thing stated during the groundbreaking ceremony July 8 was the estimated completion time of January.

That’s close. That’s something residents can see, and certainly something their children can be aware of and anticipate.

The plan seems ambitious, as outlined improvements centered on project upgrades at Regala Park, Thomas F. Daley Memorial Park, Belle Pointe Park, Stephanie Wilking Park, Wallace Bridge Park, Greenwood Park, Cambridge Park, Emily C. Watkins Park, Peavine Boat Launch, The West Bank Complex and Harold Scott Roussel Park.

Parish leaders said more than 40 projects are included in the effort — part of the Parks Master Plan that includes a complete list of upgrades slated for the future. Those can be viewed at sjbparish.com by clicking on “Government” and then “Parks and Recreation.”

The obvious benefit is adding to the quality of life for local youth, adults and seniors once these projects are completed.

If everything comes to fruition as presented last week, these additions to our community will truly benefit everyone. Weather permitting, we’re less than six months away.