Evangeline Corridor Forward – Economic Action Plan

The Evangeline Corridor Forward Economic Action Plan is a bold, place-based strategy to guide equitable development along a three-mile stretch of the future I-49 Connector in Lafayette, Louisiana. Centered on historic neighborhoods that have experienced decades of disinvestment and disruption from highway infrastructure, the plan reimagines the corridor as a catalyst for connection, community life, and economic renewal.

The plan identifies eight catalytic sites for mixed-use, mixed-income development, projecting 1.5 million square feet of new construction, 945 housing units, 19 acres of new parks and public space, and over $370 million in real estate investment. Infrastructure recommendations improve east-west pedestrian connectivity, re-establish the historic street grid, and support neighborhood-scale development that prioritizes walkability, local businesses, and housing diversity.

The Action Plan was shaped by a multidisciplinary team and extensive public engagement—including open houses, focus groups, and interviews—to ensure alignment with community priorities and ongoing infrastructure and policy efforts. Design and policy strategies address housing affordability, local hiring, and inclusive economic growth to ensure future investment benefits those historically excluded.

By integrating land use, urban design, economic development, and equity policy, the Action Plan charts a clear path from vision to implementation. It offers a replicable model for transforming highway-adjacent corridors into vibrant, inclusive urban neighborhoods.

This project was completed with James Lima Planning + Development, Partnership for Southern Equity, Franklin Associates, Lafayette Habitat for Humanity, and HDR.