Highlights and Events

The economic development entities from New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Lafayette, Thibodeaux, Lake Charles, and Alexandria are working together to assist businesses that may be temporarily displaced due to Hurricane Gustav. Each of these entities has identified properties and buildings that can be used on a temporary basis so that displaced businesses can continue their operations during recovery efforts. Gregg Gothreaux, President & CEO of the Lafayette Economic Development Authority, said, "During hurricanes Katrina and Rita, we were called upon to help businesses that were displaced from the New Orleans and Lake Charles areas, and we were scrambling to find everyone a place. This time we all met and prepared beforehand. It will be a much more organized recovery effort."

Michael Hecht, CEO of Greater New Orleans Inc. said, "After Hurricane Katrina, New Orleans had many businesses that struggled to find temporary locations in Baton Rouge, Lafayette, and other parts of the state until they could return. It really speaks well of these entities working together in a coordinated effort, and it will be of great assistance to those businesses affected by the storm."

If your business or a business colleague is in need of temporary space, please refer to the following list, and call the designated individual from your area for assistance. Greater New Orleans - Michael Hecht (504)715-5037, Baton Rouge/Capitol Area - Adam Knapp (225)381-7125,Lafayette/Acadiana - Gregg Gothreaux (337)593-1400, Thibodeaux/Houma & Bayou Region - Vic Lafont (985)448-4485, Lake Charles & Southwest Louisiana - George Swift (337)309-0870, and Alexandria/Central Louisiana - Elton Pody (318)446-4247. All of these individuals will be in constant contact with each other to ensure that businesses receive the necessary location assistance.