Events like the Summit show us that, even if change doesn’t happen all at once, it is still happening. Each time a street gets a new bike lane, we create an opportunity to lower emissions. Each time a new solar panel begins operations, a percentage of our energy portfolio gets cleaner. These little battles aren’t always gratifying, but they are the correct and necessary path to create a cleaner environment in years to come. The Smart Growth Summit brings us together to remind us of that, to reinvigorate our efforts, and to give us hope for the future.
This past summer was hot! So much so that June was recorded as the region’s hottest on record. High fuel prices and rapidly rising energy costs have meant that staying cool amidst record-breaking heat is a lot more expensive. Though we’ve all been feeling the pinch of high energy bills, it is a much greater hardship for residents living on low or fixed incomes. Many families and individuals with limited resources are also living in older homes that are not optimized for energy efficiency, driving utility costs even higher for those who can least afford it. Moreover, things like inadequate air conditioning, poorly sealed doors and windows, and insufficient insulation also affect our health – negatively impacting air and sleep quality and overall well-being.
I recently met a resident of Marksville who after some years in D.C. returned to his hometown. Like so many others I have met throughout my work in Louisiana, he is bringing home a different perspective on quality of life, a can-do attitude, and what seems like endless energy to improve his hometown. So what is the appeal? I asked him this when we first met for a tour of the town. His answer wasn’t unfamiliar – in short: the quiet lifestyle and potential. I knew what he meant because it confirmed what I’ve been witnessing in central Louisiana: older communities with rich histories and good bones that are eager for revitalization.
In honor of National Bike Month, CPEX connected with Lynley Farris from Bike Baton Rouge to discuss the great work they are doing in our community and the importance of promoting bicycle and pedestrian access. Lynley was named President of Bike Baton Rouge in November 2021 -- the first woman to hold the position -- and she also contributes to our award-winning parks and greenways system as the publicity and marketing manager for BREC.
Davis Rhorer, executive director of Baton Rouge’s Downtown Development District, talks about the substantial economic and cultural growth our downtown has experienced over the past two decades.
Justin Lemoine discusses how the Better Block and Government Street project has had long-term positive effects on Mid City’s economic growth, quality of life and role as a Baton Rouge cultural hub.
Thoughtful historic preservation is at the heart of placemaking. It also revitalizes our community and spurs economic growth.
Art is at the core of a thriving community; it’s a statement about that community’s identity and uniqueness. Art is essential to placemaking.
We can create opportunities for artists in our communities to be part of planning for the future, to have a voice in the process and reflect that voice in the places we live.
