James Ramsaur, the director of Lincoln Parish Park, has been honored with the 2024 Lincoln Parish Hospitality Award by Experience Ruston’s Ruston Lincoln Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) for his significant contributions to enhancing the park as a premier destination since he took charge in 1996. This award celebrates individuals who have made remarkable impacts on the Lincoln Parish community, and Ramsaur has certainly met that standard, having played a key role in the park’s development for almost three decades.
Under Ramsaur’s guidance, Lincoln Parish Park has seen substantial upgrades, including the creation of cross-country mountain bike trails, improvements to tent and RV campsites, and the addition of a paved walking path around the lake. Notably, he was instrumental in establishing the world’s first MTB Waterfall Hub, an innovative project that came to fruition in just four years after its conception in 2020. The Hub, designed by renowned trail builders Rogue Trails, features five flow trails catering to riders of varying skill levels.
Amanda Carrier, the president and CEO of Experience Ruston, praised Ramsaur for his visionary leadership, stating, “James has truly been a driving force of destination development in our community through the years.” She emphasized his role as an advocate for Lincoln Parish Park and tourism in the area, highlighting the community’s pride in his accomplishments.
Ramsaur expressed his honor in receiving the award, noting the success of the new Waterfall Hub and its capacity to attract visitors from across multiple states. Since its launch, the park has seen an influx of visitors that has surpassed expectations within just nine months.
The award will be presented to Ramsaur during the Chamber Awards Banquet scheduled for February 6 at the Ruston Civic Center, marking another significant milestone in his career and further emphasizing the park’s pivotal role in promoting tourism in Lincoln Parish.
This recognition not only honors an individual but also underscores the continued growth and development of Lincoln Parish Park as a key recreational destination.