CPEX founder Elizabeth “Boo” Thomas was hired by the Baton Rouge Area Foundation to lead a multi-sector collaboration that created the vision and strategies that became Plan Baton Rouge – which resulted in the revitalization of downtown, the creation of CPEX, and a next wave of transformative planning efforts to address needs throughout the city

Plan Baton Rouge was initiated by the Baton Rouge Area Foundation and the Downtown Development District in the late 1990s as a visionary effort to revitalize downtown Baton Rouge by implementing New Urbanism and Smart Growth principles. Sparked by a lecture delivered by New Urbanist Stefanos Polyzoides, Plan Baton Rouge sought to transform the city’s core into a livable, sustainable, and productive regional center. The planning process prioritized input from a wide array of stakeholders, including architects, planners, developers, and community members. The resulting master plan focused on leveraging public investment to catalyze sustained private sector growth, leading to significant redevelopment efforts in the downtown area.

Plan Baton Rouge Phase II, launched in 2008, aimed to build upon the successes of the original plan while addressing new challenges and opportunities for downtown. Although the first phase brought notable developments such as the Shaw Center for the Arts and the Hilton Baton Rouge Capitol Center, there was still a need for more residential, commercial, and entertainment spaces to fully realize downtown’s potential. Phase II introduced ambitious initiatives to create a more vibrant, livable, and entertainment-rich district. Key priorities included developing a central green space, enhancing the Third Street entertainment corridor, promoting urban forestry, and maximizing the use of the Mississippi Riverfront. The plan also emphasized the importance of financial incentives and regulatory mechanisms to stimulate further growth.

With over 80% of its 104 proposals implemented, Plan Baton Rouge Phase II has been instrumental in transforming downtown into a thriving city center, earning national recognition and setting the stage for continued urban revitalization.