Broussard is now the first development ready community in Lafayette Parish.

Mayor Ray Bourque says this historic certification is all about growing the city of Broussard.

"The certification is really about us taking a hard look at the economy in Broussard and also the quality of life amenities that we have in Broussard and making sure we’re a whole city," said Mayor Bourque.

He says they worked with Louisiana Economic Development in order to first create a blueprint for improving the local economy.

"We went through their program to look at Broussard's strengths and how to package them to potential investors and new businesses that might want to come to Broussard and how to put that all together and help market our city and improve our own local economy," he said.

Like much of Acadiana, Broussard has benefited from a prominent oil and gas industry. But with the addition of new businesses like the multimillion dollar PPE facility, he says diversifying is a good thing.

"That kind of diversity is good for all sectors. It’s good for our people, the supporting businesses that will pop and move to Broussard to help that business perform," Bourque said. "It’s just good for not only our city but our entire region."

In order to continue growing the city of Broussard, Bourque says it starts with a robust economy.

"A healthy economy is kind of the cornerstone of a healthy city," he said. "So to have that facility locate itself in Broussard and to have the workforce we have locally here, it’s just going to be a win across the board."

Bourque also says he hopes Broussard can set the example for other cities in the parish, adding it’s always a win for the region when any city is thriving.

The next step for Broussard is following the groundwork for improving the economy and overall growth of the city.

Read the full article on KADN.com.