State Main Street and local officials on Tuesday marked a pair of milestones for Broussard’s downtown revitalization: the Louisiana Main Street program announced the city’s designation as a Main Street community and the project consultant recommended the city accept Phase 2c of the Broussard Main Street improvements as substantially complete.

"We're really excited to welcome Broussard as a designated Main Street community," said Ray Schreiber of the Louisiana Main Street program, explaining that designation requires a local historic-district ordinance and a commission to oversee historic resources. Schreiber noted the program provides training, technical assistance, access to grant opportunities and historic rehabilitation tax credits that can help owners restore properties.

Project consultant Bailey Bergeron of DDG told the council that Phase 2 of the Broussard Main Street project is slightly over 70% complete and recommended the city accept Phase 2c (from Washington to Saint D'Porah Street) as substantially complete. Bergeron said a punch list created after an Oct. 9 inspection contains a few remaining items — such as permanent striping — that will be finished during final closeout. "Based on our view, the work completed to date... meets the criteria for substantial completion," Bergeron said.

Mayor Bork and staff praised local volunteers and staff (Millicent and others) who shepherded the Main Street application and thanked DDG for project management. The council approved the presentation recommendations and agreed to remain after the meeting for a certificate presentation and photos.