Randy P. Roussel
Partner, Phelps Dunbar llp
Randy is a partner in the business group in the Baton Rouge office of Phelps Dunbar LLP. His general business practice is concentrated in the areas of real estate, banking, and commercial transactions.
Prior to joining Phelps Dunbar, Randy was a certified public accountant for Arthur Andersen & Company in New Orleans from 1978 to 1981. He served a judicial clerkship for the Honorable E. Grady Jolly, United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit, New Orleans from 1984 to 1985.
Why did you join the CPEX board?
I wanted to help implement CPEX’s vision of creating sustainable communities following Smart Growth principles. CPEX was instrumental in the development of downtown Baton Rouge. CPEX also expanded the planning concepts to other communities, making Louisiana a more attractive and enjoyable place to live.
Why is the work that CPEX does so important?
CPEX has been the motivating force for projects local Planning Commissions are either unable or unwilling to undertake. CPEX is able to do this due to its community outreach and grant funding. Government Street’s transformation would not have happened without CPEX’s multi-year strategy of demonstrating what a revamped Government Street would look like. The Smart Growth Summit is also fertile ground for ideas and productive governmental policy. Overall, the work of CPEX is the catalyst for a better Louisiana.
What CPEX project are you most proud of?
The list of successful CPEX projects is long, and our focus has evolved as the issues before us have evolved. Complete Streets awareness, the transformation of downtown, and Government Street top the list.
What changes would you like to see in your community in the next five years?
Baton Rouge faces many challenges. The education system needs improvement. A highly educated population not only creates great employment opportunities but makes Baton Rouge an attractive place to live. Crime is an issue, made worse by the lack of job opportunities. These problems won’t be solved in five years but we need to begin the journey. One might argue that addressing education and crime are outside of CPEX’s mission. I disagree. CPEX addresses these issues by creating a strong community and awareness that community investment is a vital piece of the overall community puzzle. I don’t see CPEX’s mission as limited by anything. The creation of a strong community is what CPEX does.
“I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to Randy for his unwavering dedication and visionary leadership, which has helped shape CPEX’s trajectory for 15 remarkable years. As Randy transitions to the esteemed role of the CPEX’s first-ever Board Member Emeritus, his legacy will continue to inspire and guide us. We can’t thank him enough for his outstanding service and commitment to our mission.”
“Randy was one of the first leaders recruited for the founding Board of Directors. CPEX was very fortunate to have his wise counsel and his unique ability to keep us on the right track. I always loved his wicked smile because it was a signal that important advice was coming!”
Kaysie Salvatore
Community Planner / GIS Lead
Kaysie is a community planner with seven years of experience in both the public and private sectors. Kaysie is a graduate of the University of Florida with a bachelor’s degree in geography and political science and a master’s degree in urban and regional planning. Kaysie specializes in transportation/transit planning, land-use planning, GIS, and data analysis.
Kaysie has worked for private engineering and planning firms as a transportation planner; helping to improve the world around her. Kaysie has also worked for local and regional government where she helped connect urban and rural communities.
HOW LONG HAVE YOU WORKED FOR CPEX?
I've been with CPEX since June 2023.
HOW DOES YOUR JOB FIT INTO THE CPEX MISSION?
My work focuses on building livable, resilient communities throughout Louisiana. I, along with the CPEX team, provide technical assistance to individual communities related to transportation and infrastructure needs, environmental issues, and quality design for the built environment.
WHAT DOES YOUR JOB ENTAIL?
The core of my job entails going into communities to help solve a problem, whether it be focused on transportation, resiliency, or improving health. I work with community stakeholders to help them figure out the best options for addressing their needs and making their community a better place to live, work and play.
WHAT DO YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT YOUR JOB?
The people -- both in the communities I work with and at CPEX.
WHAT IS THE BEST CAREER LESSON YOU’VE LEARNED SO FAR?
Surround yourself with people who think differently than you -- you'll end up learning something new.
WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO WHEN YOU AREN’T WORKING?
I repurpose furniture, play with my dog, and love interior design!
WHAT IS YOUR VISION FOR WHAT PLANNING CAN ACCOMPLISH IN LOUISIANA?
With proper planning, Louisiana can create resilient and sustainable communities that flourish in times of environmental disaster and economic hardship.
IF THERE WAS A NEWS STORY ABOUT YOU, WHAT WOULD BE THE HEADLINE?
Woman rides all 195 rapid transit systems in the world. Says it was her life goal.
THREE WORDS TO BEST DESCRIBE YOU:
Ambitious, stubborn, and quirky.
PowerUp Louisiana Wind Tour
PROJECT DESCRIPTION:
CPEX led a PowerUp tour showcasing offshore wind development assets here in Louisiana, including the Advanced Manufacturing Site at Delgado Community College and the Gulf Wind Technology at Avondale Global Gateway. The tour brought together stakeholders and industry experts to engage in a detailed exploration of the state's readiness for offshore wind in the areas of education, training, manufacturing, and logistics.
PROJECT GOAL:
The primary goal of the PowerUp Louisiana Tour was to advance understanding of Louisiana's capabilities and potential in offshore wind, focusing on workforce training, research and development, and the supply chain. The initiative aimed to provide insights into the state's potential in these critical areas, fostering collaboration and enhancing Louisiana's position in the offshore wind sector.
WHY IS THIS PROJECT SO IMPORTANT?
The PowerUp Louisiana Tour was vital as it displayed to key players and decision-makers the wealth of resources and potential for growth in Louisiana's offshore wind sector. By providing firsthand insights, the tours aimed to strengthen understanding of and build champions for offshore wind, positioning Louisiana as a significant player in the renewable energy landscape.
WHAT WAS CPEX’S FAVORITE PART OF THIS PROJECT?
CPEX enjoyed the interactive panel discussion involving industry leaders James Martin, Chett Chiasson, Jeff Keever, and Drew Burke. They offered valuable perspectives on Louisiana's place in the domestic supply chain, the future of offshore wind technology, port infrastructure, growth strategies, and dispelling misinformation—all integral parts of advancing Louisiana's presence in the offshore wind sector.
WHAT HAS CPEX LEARNED WHILE WORKING ON THIS PROJECT?
Through the PowerUp Louisiana Tour, CPEX gained insights into developing and promoting offshore wind initiatives. The project highlighted the collaborative efforts required for offshore wind development, involving government officials, legislators, experts, stakeholders, and other nonprofit organizations. CPEX learned about the importance of showcasing educational and manufacturing facilities to underline the state's commitment to workforce development and cutting-edge technology. Additionally, CPEX observed the potential economic advantages and long-term benefits that offshore wind projects can bring to Louisiana's businesses and residents.