Revitalizing South Baton Rouge

Sai McLaughlin , Trenton Robertson, Tye’Le James, Steven Miranda , Antoinette Hodges

Introduction/Hook

Old South Baton Rouge during the 1950’s was thriving with businesses and economic wealth. During this time there were grocery stores, cleaners, and even gyms.

​

​

​

500

Research Purpose

Taking action in community development in Old South Baton Rouge

• The purpose of our research is to understand what the community needs.

​

Research Problem

​

​

​

The problem that this project addresses the lack of employment and access to medications, clothes, and other necessities in South Baton Rouge. This causes a shortage of wealth and healthy food options. This problem also affects the happiness of people living in South Baton Rouge.

​

​

​

​

​

Research Question

​

​

​

​

What are the perceived needs of South Baton Rouge residents for their community?

​

​

​

​

BACKGROUND RESEARCH

​

J. Edwards and Petra Munro Hendry, the authors of Old South Baton Rouge: The Roots of Hope, explain how OSBR was back in the 1950s. For example, the Baton Rouge Bus Boycott. They also discuss integration and how it affected African Americans and black businesses. The authors argue that “OSBR was a thriving multiethnic community” (77).

​

​

Background research #2

The Baton Rouge Redevelopment Authority (RDA) explains the risks and costs associated with blight in the community. “Vacant and blighted properties tend to exact additional costs to communities and local governments through higher crime rates.”

Our Community ACTION

• Community Tour.

​

• Canvassing.

​

• Meeting in the Leo S. Butler Center.

​

• Soon we are going to do a Townhall meeting.

Research Design

• Student surveys during school
• Community walk giving surveys.
• Talking to the Redevelopment Authorities
• Talking to people in the Mayor office.

Research Claim

Our research shows that we do need access to a fresh market with healthy food options in Old South Baton Rouge.

​

Research Claim #2

Having a store in South Baton Rouge would assist the community by having a healthy food alternative. It would supply more jobs for the community and hopefully it would encourage economic development.

​

Research Claim #3

The residents of South Baton Rouge love their community, but they think they need more community involvement.

Conclusion

I conclusion, our research on the perceived needs of South Baton residents for their community has proven that this neighborhood does in fact need a grocery store. More specifically, the community needs a grocery store where healthy food options, medicine, clothes, and job opportunities are provided.

Thanks to

Mr. Ed Pratt, South Baton Rouge residents, The Redevelopment Authority, The Mayor’s Office

We would love to show our gratitude for our beloved mentors for their amazing work shown throughout this activity or project as most like to call it. We also want to show our gratefulness to y’all for appearing in our program.