Opelousas Downtown Development District Invests $100,000 Through 2026
Building Improvement Grant Program
OPELOUSAS, La. – The Opelousas Downtown Development District (ODDD) is proud to
announce the recipients of its 2026 Building Improvement Grant (BIG) Program, awarding
$100,000 in matching grants to 12 local businesses and organizations for exterior building
improvements that encourage continued investment in downtown Opelousas.
The Building Improvement Grant (BIG) Program is a competitive reimbursement grant that
provides dollar-for-dollar matching funds of up to $10,000 for eligible exterior improvements.
Eligible projects include façade improvements, exterior painting, signage, windows and doors,
lighting, landscaping, accessibility enhancements, and other improvements that strengthen the
appearance and vitality of downtown Opelousas.
“The BIG Grant Program continues to be an important investment in the future of downtown
Opelousas,” said Lena F. Charles, Chairwoman of the Opelousas Downtown Development
District. “By partnering with our businesses and property owners, we are preserving the character
of our downtown, encouraging private investment, and creating a more vibrant place to live,
work, and visit.”
Following a competitive review process, the Opelousas Downtown Development District is
pleased to announce the 2026 BIG Grant recipients:
- Bloch Street Space
- Bottom’s Up Art Center
- CASA St. Landry-Evangeline
- Cleaning Chemical Solutions
- Hope for Opelousas
- Law Office of Howard DeJean
- Mz. Connie’s Place
- Opelousas Pregnancy Center
- Preston Castille Enterprises
- Rainbow of Blessings Academy
- Robin’s Supermarket
- Totally MIE Boutique
The 2026 BIG Grant Program will leverage more than $200,000 in combined public and private
investment, supporting projects that improve building exteriors, preserve historic assets, and
strengthen the downtown business district.
“The continued interest in the BIG Grant Program reflects the positive momentum happening in
downtown Opelousas,” said Brittany Cretchain, Downtown Revitalization Project Specialist for
the Opelousas Downtown Development District. “These projects represent a shared investment
in our community’s future and will help create a more attractive, vibrant downtown for
businesses, residents, and visitors.”
The Building Improvement Grant Program is funded by the Opelousas Downtown Development
District.
ODDD extends its appreciation to the members of the 2026 BIG Grant Committee for their time
and dedication throughout the review process. Committee members included Lena F. Charles,
Chairwoman of the Opelousas Downtown Development District; Brittany Cretchain, Downtown
Revitalization Project Specialist; Sarah Branton, BIG Grant Committee Chair, ODDD Board
Member, and Opelousas Main Street Board Member; Melanie Lee-LeBouef, Opelousas Main
Street Manager and Tourism Director for the City of Opelousas; and Ray Scriber, Director of
Louisiana Main Street.
Grant recipients are required to execute a grant agreement with the Opelousas Downtown
Development District before work begins and must complete all approved improvements by
December 31, 2026, to remain eligible for reimbursement.
Construction is expected to begin in the coming months, with improvements taking place
throughout the Downtown Development District. ODDD looks forward to showcasing the
completed projects and their positive impact as downtown Opelousas continues to grow and
revitalize.
About the Opelousas Downtown Development District
The Opelousas Downtown Development District is committed to promoting economic growth,
preserving the historic character of downtown Opelousas, and supporting revitalization efforts
that enhance the district as a vibrant place to live, work, shop, and visit. Through strategic
partnerships, investment initiatives, and community engagement, ODDD works to strengthen
downtown as the economic and cultural heart of Opelousas.
Media Contact
Brittany Cretchain, MPA
Downtown Revitalization Project Specialist
Opelousas Downtown Development District
Phone: (337) 331-2245
Email: brittanyc@stlandryed.com
