A Marrero camping enthusiast recently won approval from the Jefferson ParishCouncil to develop an RV resort on 41 acres of undeveloped land in the Fairfield overlay district in Avondale. The proposed Belle Cypress RV resort, which would include amenities such as a clubhouse, swimming pool and convenience store, would be adjacent to NOLA Motorsports Park in Avondale.
“We’re looking to be similar to a five-star hotel resort,” said Aron Andrus, “But, I have a different twist on that in that my guest will be bringing their own hotel room.”
Andrus, who said he grew up vacationing via RV’s with his parents and continues the tradition with his own family, said he wants to tap into a $50 billion national market with what he describes as an upscale venture targeting millennials to baby boomers and snow birds.
The resort would have 181 RV parking sites with a mixture of back-in and pull through sites, according to the plans submitted for parish review.
To help with Fairfield development near Avondale, Jefferson Parish hires consultant
The analysis will examine property bordered by U.S. 90, the St. Charles Parish line, Lake Catouache and Bayou Segnette.
“I see a large need for it in the New Orleans market, there aren’t enough RV sites available within the New Orleans market to support the number of RVs that are on the road right now,” Andrus said. “And with New Orleans as big of a tourist mecca as it is for festivals and Mardi Gras and Jazz Fest, when these folks come to New Orleans they have a limited selection, and those limited selections fill up fast.”
Now that he’s gained approval for the project, Andrus said he is seeking financial backing for what he estimates will be a $7 million project. The parish council is required to approve commercial projects covering more than one acre in the Fairfield area
“We’re looking to break ground, if all goes well, possibly within five months or so,” Andrus said, “hopefully with a fall 2018 opening.”
Andrus, who said he has hired a national consultant to help develop the resort, said he wants to keep the woodsy feel of the property by maintaining surrounding vegetation and trees. His plans also call for a dog park and pickle ball courts along with the traditional full RV hook-ups provided.
“I’m looking to give the guests a safe, clean environment to come to and stay and be able to travel to the city, not only to New Orleans but anything Jefferson Parish has to offer as well,” he said.