Urban core revitalization is a central pillar of One Acadiana’s Vibrant Acadiana initiative, recognizing that a strong, well-connected urban core helps the region compete for business investment and professional talent.
Through our Urban Revitalization & Development (URD) Committee, One Acadiana convenes leaders from the public, private, and nonprofit sectors to engage on the projects and initiatives shaping Lafayette’s urban core.
The URD Committee meets monthly, and this quarter’s meetings covered revitalization opportunities in the Oil Center, the Johnston Street Revitalization initiative, and the expansion of the Downtown Ambassador Program.
January Meeting: Focus on the Oil Center
The January URD Committee meeting featured a presentation from representatives of the Oil Center Association (OCA), who provided an update on the organization’s work and priorities for the district.
The Oil Center remains a key district within Lafayette’s urban core, bringing together offices, restaurants, retail, and cultural destinations in a walkable environment near UL Lafayette. The discussion highlighted the ongoing efforts of the OCA to support businesses, enhance public spaces, and strengthen the district’s identity.
February Meeting: Johnston Street Revitalization
At the February meeting, the committee received an update from Lafayette Consolidated Government on the Johnston Street Revitalization initiative, supported in part by a recently awarded federal Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) grant.
The grant will help advance infrastructure improvements along Johnston Street designed to enhance safety, improve pedestrian connectivity, and strengthen one of Lafayette’s most important corridors. City officials also discussed related investments in nearby areas, including improvements along Bertrand Drive, reflecting a broader effort to improve mobility and quality of place in areas surrounding the urban core.
March Meeting: Expanding the Downtown Ambassador Program
In March, the URD Committee joined the Downtown Development Authority (DDA) Board for a special meeting held at Catholic Charities of Acadiana.
During the meeting, the DDA Board approved an agreement with Catholic Charities to expand the Downtown Ambassador Program to the organization’s campus on St. John Street and surrounding areas. Downtown Ambassadors provide environmental maintenance, hospitality assistance, and public safety support that help maintain clean and welcoming public spaces.
Looking Ahead
The next URD Committee meeting will take place on April 8 and will focus on the Bayou Vermilion District (BVD) Master Plan.
One Acadiana members in good standing are invited to participate in the URD Committee. To get involved, contact andre@oneacadiana.org.