Business and industry are bringing a large number of new residents to Ouachita Parish. Housing is a critical issue, and one the Ouachita Business Alliance is working to grow and enhance.
Joe Holyfield serves as Housing leadership chair for the OBA. Builders and developers have come together to plan for new needs and opportunities for people moving to the area. "What we see is workers moving here from Europe, from the northwest, like Seattle, like Denver," says Holyfield. "There is a different housing piece that those areas provide."
The alliance analyzed data from several companies based in Ouachita Parish. A significant need was seen in apartments and duplexes with newer amenities. "There's as much demand for apartments as there is for the single-family housing needs," he said.
The housing team worked to identify an ideal price range for those moving to the area. Contractors and builders are creating sites that fall in line with expected rent or pricing.
The team is also seeking to enhance more established areas of the parish. "One thing we found was that some liked locations such as the Garden District. One, the pricing was in the preferred range. Second, they like having a home with a sidewalk. Its kind of a kick back to older times," said Holyfield.
He adds that their group continues to work with local realtors in learning about ideal properties and locations to accommodate the needs of residents moving to the area.
