GRAND ISLE STATE PARK, Louisiana: Almost two years after Hurricane Ida struck the barrier island and destroyed most of its infrastructure, Grand Isle State Park has reopened.

In a statement, Grand Isle Mayor David Camardelle said, "This is a big step in our recovery, and just in time for locals and visitors to enjoy for the summer. The state park plays a major role in our local economy as an RV park and campground for those visiting the state park and island. We are thrilled to have it back."

The Times-Picayune/The New Orleans Advocate reported that the park's beach, recreational vehicle pads and tent campsites reopened last week, but the Gulf fishing pier and one of the two bathhouses remain closed for repairs.

Ida, which came ashore west of Grand Isle on 29th August, 2021, damaged almost all of Grand Isle's 2,500 structures, and destroyed 700 homes.

Brandon Burris, assistant secretary of the Louisiana Department of Culture, Tourism and Recreation, said the main reason it took 21 months to reopen the park for recreation is because it was used for emergency housing for Ida's victims.

"We have had people living there since very shortly after the storm cleared," he noted.