In growing communities, quality of life is more than just a measure; it’s a daily experience shaped by parks, public spaces, events, and the connections they foster. In Lake Charles, Hannah Veazey, assistant director of community services at the City of Lake Charles, works to ensure residents not only have access to these spaces but also feel inspired to use and shape them.
In this month’s Q&A, Veazey discusses the importance of community input, the challenges and opportunities in enhancing livability, and how thoughtful planning today can strengthen the city for years to come.
• When we talk about “quality of life,” what does that really mean for residents, and why is it important for a growing community like ours?
Quality of life reflects how well a city meets the needs of its residents, from safety and healthcare to education and opportunities for connection. For some, it means access to parks, entertainment, and recreation. For others, it’s about building relationships, job opportunities, or creating and maintaining a stable home for themselves and their families. Understanding and measuring these factors can help cities make informed decisions and invest in areas that align with their citizens’ needs and wants. A high quality of life doesn’t just benefit current residents; it also helps attract new ones. It brings more customers to local businesses, expands the talent pool for industries, and strengthens the economy through continued growth and reinvestment.
• What are the biggest barriers to improving quality of life in our community, and how can city projects overcome them?
For local leaders, maintaining and improving the quality of life is an ongoing challenge. As communities grow and evolve, the needs of residents and local trends change. What worked in the past may not work today. Barriers such as limited budgets, time constraints, accessibility, and serving a diverse population make the issue even more complex. Because quality of life touches so many areas—from infrastructure and public services to social programs and recreation—it requires strong cross-organizational collaboration between city departments, private businesses, and other community partners. Aligning these efforts helps reduce the potential for overlap and ensures time and resources are used effectively. Another useful and cost-effective tool is engaging the public. Including residents in the planning process helps ensure projects reflect real priorities. And by planning ahead, cities can stay proactive, thereby saving time, money, and frustration down the road.
• What role do community events, parks, and shared public spaces play in improving our daily lives and sense of connection to the city?
Long project timelines and infrastructure improvements are unavoidable but necessary. It can be exhausting and difficult to stay patient when there is always “work ahead.” For this reason, community events, parks, and shared public spaces are especially important in supporting both the immediate and long-term well-being of the city and its residents. Well-maintained parks with walking paths, engaging play structures, and thoughtfully designed, welcoming spaces can help promote overall wellness across all age groups. When these spaces are creatively programmed and actively used, they foster social connection and a sense of belonging. And when executed just right, it can turn residents into stakeholders. People who feel more connected to and supported by their city often want to contribute and give back. This is another way to bring residents to the table and get meaningful feedback and input in return.
• How do you measure the success of quality-of-life improvements? What indicators show that people are truly benefiting from these investments?
More participation in community events, positive interactions on social media, and greater public awareness of city initiatives are all signs that residents are informed, excited, and supportive of local efforts. Statistically, reducing traffic congestion, crime rates, and health-related issues points to a healthier, safer, and more satisfied community. Improving quality of life is not a one-time goal, but an ongoing commitment. To honor that commitment for all of its residents, a city must continue to listen, adapt, and invest to ensure the community remains a place where people feel supported, connected, and proud to call home.
For more information, visit JustImagineSWLA.org.
