GONZALES — The Ascension Parish Government is negotiating a purchase agreement for approximately 110 acres of land near the Lamar-Dixon Expo Center for a proposed sports complex, according to Business Report.

The property is located along Edenborne near River Parishes Community College. While Ascension Parish Council Chair Chase Melancon previously estimated the purchase price at around $2.6 million, parish officials emphasized that no final price has been set as negotiations with multiple heirs and companies remain ongoing.

If acquired, the parish plans to hire a firm to develop conceptual layouts and cost estimates. No funding plan is currently in place, though Melancon suggested proposing video poker legalization to voters, with 60% of potential revenues dedicated to recreation and 40% to transportation.

The project would expand existing athletic facilities at Lamar-Dixon, which currently features seven lighted fields, a climate-controlled gymnasium, and a $4.5 million soccer complex built in 2017. Officials hope to close on the property by late this year or early next year.