Community development in it of its self is the bridge between place and physical health, using neighborhood revitalization as a strategy to improve the health of low-income communities. In our world we measure “health of community” through the reduction of preventable chronic diseases such as asthma, diabetes, and obesity to align with the way the world measures the “health of a community. “Which is equivalent to the number of successful local businesses, available food options, and reduction of economic blight in neighborhoods. Interestingly, physical health is only a portion of the puzzle that creates a fully “healthy” community. 

​As a resident of Baton Rouge, we have noticed that LSU has its’ own ecosystem. In essence, LSU has its own perfect community and the students and staff are the residents. At LSU all residents have easily accessible health facilities, shopping, restaurants, mixed-income living, work opportunities, and grocery stores. Additionally, the residents are able to move freely between spaces through various forms of transportation – walking, biking, transit, or car. In our line of work this is called “sustainability planning” where residents can meet all their needs within a 20 – minute distance. GEAUX TIGERS! How is it possible for a university to have a concept that enhances the quality of life for all residents and local surrounding communities are having a difficult time? Two words – Urban Density. 

To many, the word “gentrification” sounds like the sentencing of the death penalty and to others gentrification is the ultimate solution to regain balance to disenfranchised cities.To be sure, what exactly is gentrification? Is it simply fancying up a neighborhood that brings in new residents and buildings or is it the displacement of current residents due to the influx of the new fancy residents and businesses? So, let’s clear the air.

​One of the biggest financial debates everyone has. Let’s be honest, the renting process is easy and less complicated. Renting makes it easier to relocate with less restrictions and you are not reliable for repairs. Sounds like an amazing deal if you are not ready to settle, invest, or financial capable. Buying a home can be scary. Essentially, you are making a huge financial decision and planting roots in your life; but is that a bad thing?  

​We all deserve to live in an equitable community that has limitless amenities with the people we love. The American Dream! To many, it’s still a dream. Countless citizens feel powerless and silenced to the loud roar of the government. However, many are unaware of how the Census data shapes the future of our community and defines our voice in congress. 

Would you believe us if we said our community is currently in motion to achieve the goal of creating a Complete Neighborhood?

​Mid City Redevelopment Alliance Brings on New Talent to Tackle Community Engagement in World of Social Distancing, Thirty Year Anniversary of Mid City, Redevelopment of Florida Blvd.

​Residents in Baton Rouge and across the country want to create vibrant and welcoming places everyone wants to call home. But to accomplish this goal, bridging the wealth and attainment gaps that allow Baton Rouge residents to improve their own financial future is critical. Mid City Redevelopment Alliance is helping people bypass challenges and improve their lives.

Cannatella Grocery was established in 1923 by Charles Cannatella and his father Joseph in Melville, Louisiana. The family lived in the house next to the store, and as Aunt Jennie wrote in the family history:

The Crawford House, 1855 Country Club Drive, has been in the news quite a bit as of late. You may have seen any number of articles or petitions calling for its preservation amid news that it had been sold to a development company for $800,000 who had plans to demolish the building and subdivide the lot into 4 smaller lots.