Medical Marijuana FAQs
March 2024
SWLA/SETX Spring Festival Planner
March 2024
by Katie C. Harrington
A city’s downtown plays an important and unique role in economic and social development. Healthy downtowns create opportunities for concentrated commercial, cultural, civic and other activities.
Thriving, lively and in a constant state of positive change. These are just three thoughts that come to mind when describing the current state of Downtown Lake Charles.
“Over the past two years in particular, downtown festival life has been robust, bringing an eclectic mix of traffic to the area; something that lends itself to increased economic activity and opportunity,” says Mayor Nic Hunter. “Additionally, several new businesses and initiatives are now calling Downtown Lake Charles home. A thriving downtown corridor is a sign of a healthy city and we are very optimistic about the future of our Downtown and Lakefront Development Districts.”
The necessity of a thriving downtown is a sentiment echoed by Downtown Development Authority (DDA) Chair Nathaniel Allured. “A vibrant downtown provides economic vitality and diversity, along with creating a social, cultural and entertainment hub. Enhancements to the District increase the city’s physical attractiveness while creating a walkable, livable, and appealing urban core, helping attract and retain young professionals.”
From festivals and business development to infrastructure and housing projects, the downtown and lakefront corridors have seen significant activity in recent years, and 2024 is off to a strong, promising start. A number of capital infrastructure projects are slated for Downtown in 2024, including a series of street overlays on Broad, Kirby, Pujo, Ryan, Mill, Common and Division Streets.
“Street overlays may not be the most exciting topic of conversation, but these capital investments are critical to fueling economic growth in the District,” adds Mayor Nic Hunter. “Other infrastructure investments, such as the planned Mill Street Streetscape, add extra value, connecting nearby residents and increasing overall walkability in the area.”
This increased walkability is an important focus point according to Allured. “There is still a lot to accomplish regarding pedestrian improvements to intersections and additional streetscaping, along with better connectivity from the core of downtown to the Lake Charles Event Center grounds and the lakefront. The DDA is also working to identify locations and funding for new art installations within the district to create more “Instagrammable” moments.”
In addition to public infrastructure, a number of notable developments are underway. Construction on Port Wonder, which will house a new Children’s Museum and LDWF Science and Nature Center, is well underway, with an anticipated opening date set for later this summer, and the restoration of the Lakefront Parking Garage is largely complete. Construction is complete on a new North Beach pier, and several new amenities have been added to the lakefront, including Lake Area Adventure Kayak Rentals, beach volleyball, soccer, and pickleball courts.
“We started 2024 off with a groundbreaking ceremony for Crying Eagle’s lakefront location, which will be between Port Wonder and the parking garage,” adds Mayor Hunter. “Improvements to the boardwalk in this area and the construction of new restrooms on North Beach are also planned for this year.”
Other noteworthy ventures underway include Planet Construction’s restoration of the historic structure located at the corner of Ryan and Division Streets, construction of a new B1 Bank in the 800 block of Ryan Street, and the Devall brother’s ongoing restoration of a historic Kirby Street property.
Additionally, new shops such as Mantra Yoga, Mueller’s Vintage and The Emporium are now offering additional retail and wellness options.
Construction is also well underway on Woodring Apartments, bringing new residential units to the corner of Bilbo and Division Streets. These storm-fortified housing options are scheduled to hit the market in September of this year.
“Other notable projects the community can look forward to hearing more about in 2024 include the Louisiana Vietnam Veterans Memorial at Veterans Memorial Park, a new attraction in Ten Pin Alley and the transformation of Lock Park to the City’s first fully inclusive playground thanks to a partnership with LyondellBasell and Families for Inclusion,” says Mayor Hunter.
Football fans can also look forward to cheering on the Louisiana Voodoo who will bring arena football back to the City when they call the Lake Charles Event Center their home field for the 2024 spring season.
“The overall outlook for downtown is bright,” concludes Allured. “There are a lot of exciting developments to be happy about, especially the completion of Port Wonder.”
“If you have not been to Downtown Lake Charles lately to enjoy a meal, visit Historic City Hall or patronize the shops, do yourself a favor and plan a visit,” adds Mayor Nic Hunter. “From lively festivals and events to brand new attractions like Port Wonder, our downtown and lakefront are truly destinations perfect for residents and visitors alike.”
Katie C. Harrington is the Public Information Officer for the City of Lake Charles.
TOURISM
by Candy Rodriguez
Many of Southwest Louisiana’s visitors come to discover the area’s natural beauty. Some are gaming enthusiasts looking to try their luck at one of the local casinos. others are foodies interested in exploring our culinary scene. But beyond the memorable experiences stemming from tourism lies a connected system of financial transactions at local businesses and employment opportunities. This relationship contributes to the region’s economic heartbeat.
