Lafayette to Install Safety Bollards Forcing Road Closures

(Lafayette, Louisiana) – In an effort to improve pedestrian safety and traffic control, the Lafayette Consolidated Government will begin installing security bollards in Downtown Lafayette, forcing temporary road closures until April 4, 2025.

Growing up in New Orleans and having visited Bourbon Street over the years, It was reassuring to have the street blocked off with bollards so cars couldn't drive down the street while pedestrians were letting the good times roll. With all the events that happen throughout the year in downtown Lafayette, having a system in place will help with public safety.

What Is a Bollard?

The initiative follows growing concerns over public safety, particularly in the wake of the New Orleans terror attack on New Year’s Eve, where a vehicle was used to target crowds, leaving multiple casualties. Cities across Louisiana, including Lafayette, are reinforcing pedestrian-heavy areas with protective bollards to prevent similar incidents. While it wasn't officially mentioned in the news release, one can't help but notice the timing, as one of the largest festivals in Lafayette is about to take place in April with with Festival International.

What Lafayette Streets Will Be Affected By The Bollard Installations?

The affected streets include:

E. Main St. (between Jefferson St. and Polk St.)
E. Congress St. (between Polk St. and Taylor St.)
Lafayette St. (between W. Main St. and W. Vermilion St.)

While businesses will remain open, drivers and pedestrians are going to have to use alternate routes and be extra careful near construction zones.

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City officials explain that the Downtown Bollard Project is a proactive measure to improve public safety, making sure that Lafayette’s streets remain secure for residents and visitors. According to Lafayette Consolidated Government, they appreciate the community’s patience and cooperation as they work to upgrade downtown infrastructure.

The History Behind Lafayette's Street Names

We drive them on a daily basis. Some are smoother than others. Some we use more frequently than others. Some randomly start, end, and/or change names. They're the streets of Lafayette. The names behind many of these streets have interesting histories. We take a look at where those names come from and the impact their namesakes have had on the city and the parish.

Gallery Credit: Joe Cunningham