Property Buzz
Johnston St. Redevelopment Plan
Posted: Apr 10, 2009 6:45 PM
Updated: Apr 10, 2009 6:45 PM
It's a plan that's been in the works for nearly a deacade. Improving Lafayette's main commercial corridor Johnston street. It seems no matter how much we try to avoid Lafayettes main drag, at some point during the week, most of us are going to end up on Johnston St.
A local real-estate developer along with a Johnston St. coordinating team has an impressive vision to make Johnston an easier, convenient, better looking means of transportation.
It's a vision shared by many property owners and businesses. Real estate developer Reed Andrus has put together a cohesive plan to redevelop what many call, Lafayettes eyesore from University to well beyond the mall.
"Very ambitious plan, very much needed. I think everybody in Lafayette would agree. But, how do you go about it." said Andrus
Andrus and the Johnston St. coordinating team wants to widen the corridor to a standard 116-foot right of way or the amount of additional property that would have to be purchased. This will allow services for public bus transportation, sidewalks, 30 foot medians, and a street that's easier on the eye. Andrus says after existing power lines are buried, business signs brought to eye level, and landscaping added, it will provide for a lush corridor for mass transit.
"It would improve our property values, it would improve business activity. It's a lot more peaceful to look at without the overhead power lines and all the obstructions. That in of itself is gonna be worth a lot to this community." said Andrus
Andrus says the project could be completed in less than five years with as little disruption to business as possible. The project could cost up to $72 million. He says city parish president Joey Durel has seen the plan, likes it, and could endorse it. It is up to city administration on whether or when this project could come into fruition. If you want to know more about this vision, details are available.
Visit the website - www.improvejohnston.org
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