A Just Imagine SWLA Strong Downtowns Champion, Nathaniel Allured, on his Takeaways from Jeff Speck's Visit
We were fortunate to have renowned city planner Jeff Speck tour the Lake Charles Downtown Development District and propose insightful planning recommendations at the end of April. After spending the day with him, we walked away with a clear understanding of how we can rethink downtown Lake Charles to make it more walkable, vibrant, and inviting. Speck’s research-backed strategies show that walkability isn’t just about aesthetics: it’s about safety, economic success, and making downtown a place people want to be.
What makes a strong downtown?
A thriving downtown has energy; it’s a place where people live, work, and play. Speck reinforced that walkability plays a huge role in this. It’s not just about adding sidewalks; it’s about creating streets that prioritize pedestrians, cyclists, and transit users while still accommodating vehicles. Downtowns succeed when they are accessible, engaging, and filled with a mix of businesses, public spaces, and cultural attractions.
How can Calcasieu and Cameron parishes improve walkability and create a more pedestrian-friendly downtown?
One of the biggest takeaways from our time with Speck was that, in many instances, we already have the space we need to make these improvements; the key is reallocating it wisely. Many of our streets are wide enough to support complete streets without the need for massive infrastructure projects. Simple striping changes can immediately reconfigure traffic lanes, creating safer pedestrian and bike-friendly routes. Later, capital investments can make these changes permanent, adding green spaces, better lighting, and beautification efforts. It’s a cost-effective way to make an impact fast.
What types of businesses thrive downtown, and how can we attract them?
A successful downtown is about creating a diverse business ecosystem that supports a full Live-Work-Play model. First-floor spaces set the tone and should prioritize businesses that generate foot traffic and stay open beyond 5 p.m.: restaurants, cafes, entertainment venues, and unique local shops that make downtown an attractive destination. These businesses keep the energy going throughout the day and into the evening, ensuring that downtown feels vibrant and active.
Equally important is diversifying upper-floor spaces to include office-type businesses, co-working spaces, and professional services. Bringing more workers into the district strengthens its economic foundation and ensures daytime activity that complements the retail and
hospitality industries. This mix balances the district’s function, making it not just a place to visit but a place where people work, invest, and grow businesses.
As downtown attracts more permanent residents, supporting the “Live” component becomes critical. A thriving district needs essential services like grocery stores, medical offices, dental clinics, pharmacies, and fitness centers – the everyday conveniences that make urban living practical and desirable. The more downtown can provide for residents’ daily needs, the more it encourages long-term investment and a strong local community.
Ultimately, a well-rounded business inventory isn’t just about bringing people into the district – it’s about giving them reasons to stay. By fostering a mix of businesses that serve visitors and residents while ensuring the streets remain engaging and accessible, we can build a district that feels active, livable, and sustainable for the future.
How do we balance development with historic preservation?
Lake Charles has a rich history, and we have an opportunity to blend modern development with preservation. Speck is a strong advocate for adaptive reuse; repurposing historic buildings instead of replacing them, and the recent National Historic District designation within the downtown district provides access to critical tax credits for use in repurposing existing historic structures. By encouraging smart growth that complements existing architecture, we can keep the charm of downtown intact while allowing it to evolve.
How do public spaces strengthen downtown?
Speck emphasized how parks, plazas, and waterfront activation can transform a downtown. These spaces aren’t just recreational; they also increase foot traffic, support local businesses, and create vibrant gathering spots. Lake Charles’ waterfront, in particular, has huge potential for activation through pedestrian-friendly development.
Final Thoughts
What struck me most was Speck’s data-backed approach. The numbers prove that cities prioritizing walkability experience fewer traffic fatalities, stronger local economies, and more vibrant communities. Downtown Lake Charles already has the foundation – it’s now about making smart changes that create a welcoming and thriving city center.
By starting with incremental improvements, embracing Speck’s principles, and engaging the community, we can build a downtown that’s safer, more accessible, and more dynamic than ever!
To learn more about Just Imagine SWLA, visit justimagineswla.org.
