A Major Step in Main Street 2030
The City of Central is nearing completion of its new City Hall. The project is one of the first major pieces of the Main Street 2030 development plan. The city purchased 356 acres nearly a year ago to help create a true downtown.
Mayor Wade Evans said the new building represents years of planning. Since Central incorporated in 2005, residents have called for a city center. Many plans existed, but the city never acted on them. Evans said his administration reviewed those plans and decided it was time to move forward.
Building a Downtown With Purpose
City leaders selected Sullivan Road as the heart of the future downtown. The area includes large, undeveloped properties that allow for long-term planning. The city also created an overlay district to guide development and ensure consistency.
Evans said a downtown gives Central a clear identity. It creates a place where residents can gather and connect. Central spans 62 square miles, making it one of the largest cities in Louisiana by land area. Until now, it lacked a central gathering space.
Infrastructure Drives Growth
Main Street 2030 includes major infrastructure projects. The city plans to move forward with an 85-acre flood control project funded through FEMA’s BRIC program. Evans called the project the backbone of future development.
Central has also hired a designer for a proposed multi-use arena. City leaders see the arena as another driver of economic growth.
City Hall as a Community Anchor
The new City Hall sits near school system offices and Central’s historic football stadium. Together, the buildings form a municipal hub. Evans said residents will be able to access city and school services in one location.
The city plans to host a grand opening for City Hall in April. City leaders expect the building to anchor downtown growth for years to come.