Overview: Partners In Place is a new pilot program designed to integrate arts and culture into public spaces, driving social, economic, and cultural revitalization while centering the community in Louisiana’s Cultural Districts. Led by Creative Community Strategies, whose impactful work has garnered global recognition, this initiative aims to enhance community identity, foster social connections, and stimulate local economies through creative expression.

Project Scope: The pilot program will focus on three selected Louisiana Cultural Districts, each representing a unique setting: urban, suburban, and rural or small-town environments. Communities will be chosen through an application process, with services tailored to reflect their distinct strengths, cultural history, creativity, and challenges. Applicants must be prepared to dedicate a minimum of 100 hours to working with the consultant to develop final products.

Community Types:

1. Community A: Urban Area (area within a principal city of a metropolitan statistical area)
2. Community B: Suburban Area (area within a metropolitan statistical area (MSA), but not within a principal city of the MSA)
3. Community C: Rural Area or Small Town (outside of an MSA)

Final Products: Working collaboratively with community members and local liaisons, Partners in Place offers a comprehensive approach to support cultural growth and creative placemaking. These will include:

• Comprehensive Site Analysis: Detailed assessment for each district.
• Artistic Program Plan: Tailored to district goals.
• Partnership Engagement Strategy: Involving local stakeholders and a community visioning workshop.
• Public Space Improvement Recommendations: Suggestions for transforming and enhancing spaces.
• Sustainability and Maintenance Plan: Ensuring long-term upkeep through community stewardship.
• Phased Implementation Timeline: Structured approach for achieving creative placemaking goals.

Program Value: Partners In Place ensures that placemaking initiatives reflect local culture and priorities, fostering a sense of belonging while driving economic and social benefits. This approach offers support beyond the current capacity of the Louisiana Division of the Arts (LDOA), encouraging cultural expression, attracting visitors, supporting local economies, and reengaging districts. As a pilot program, it will undergo an internal evaluation to determine the next steps.