Now, over 80 years later, the state has decided to fund the $6.5 million project to restore the Contraband Bayou. Over the years since founding, erosion and pollution have created an unpleasant look to the Bayou, devastating a common place for all people of Calcasieu Parish to relax and enjoy the scenery. The Contraband Bayou is not just some place to be, “It’s a big part of our campus. It’s what makes McNeese, McNeese, and it’d be really nice to make it look nicer; draw in some retention,” one student said. The project will highly focus on addressing erosion issues and improving the aesthetic components of the area.