February 20, 2026
The Mural as a Movement
The mural will stand as a vibrant addition to the district. But just as important is the quiet generosity that surrounded it.
September 30, 2019
Construction phase begins at Old Federal Courthouse
10 months since the Lafayette City-Parish Council voted to sell the blighted site of the former federal courthouse to private developers, the project is now moving forward. Project developers have erected a construction fence around the property, indicating an end to the due diligence period and the beginning of the construction phase.
The Old Federal Courthouse project (or OFCH) has been in the works since November 2018, when the city-parish council approved the sale of the property to a group of private developers. The OFCH building, which has been vacant for decades, is identified as a catalyst project for Downtown Lafayette. Many have advocated for the site’s redevelopment, citing it’s potential to increase the residential population of Downtown and create vibrancy on a long neglected stretch of Jefferson Street.
The plans for the renovation include the creation of 68 apartment units and 25,000 square feet of commercial space. Construction was originally intended to begin in July, but concerns about environmental remediation led the developers to apply for a 90-day extension to obtain federal funding to offset remediation costs. The project has a “substantial completion” deadline of December 31, 2020.
February 18, 2026
Care in Contagious: How the Ambassador Program Changes How We See (and Treat) Downtown
The Ambassador program started as a practical step to maintain our downtown, but it has quickly become something more. It is a catalyst for civic pride and collective care.
January 26, 2026
Beyond the Wall: How Public Art Creates Place
If you can envision it, you can build it. If you can dream it, you can paint it. And when that dream is shared between artists, institutions, and the public, it becomes part of the city’s story.
January 21, 2026
Walkability Is More Than a Sidewalk
Walkability is a term often coined like an achievement, something a city either has or does not. In reality, it is a process. And when done well, it requires patience, listening, and thoughtful design.
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December 12, 2025
Improvements underway at downtown Lafayette's Parc International. See List of Upgrades
Improvements are underway at downtown Lafayette's Parc International, which serves as a main venue for Festival International, the city's largest festival that draws thousands every April.
November 8, 2025
Volunteers bring ‘Downtown in Bloom’ to life in Lafayette
Downtown Lafayette looked — and smelled — a little fresher Saturday morning as volunteers gathered for 'Downtown in Bloom,' a local beautification event.
November 4, 2025
The Children's Museum of Acadiana is getting a facelift from a Lafayette muralist
The Children's Museum of Acadiana in downtown Lafayette will get a major facelift from muralist Dirk Guidry.
