J.R. STAVES: development

Okay, if anybody knows me, they know I'm a sucker for urban planning and mixed use developments. With that being said, I never thought that I would see the day one would be constructed in my hometown. We were supposed to get one a while back called SOUTHRIDGE; However, the developer ended up selling the land. I'm still hoping that they end up trying it again somewhere else in the Lake Area. Anyway, moving on to the topic, WALNUT GROVE is the TND (Traditional Neighborhood Development) that I am talking about. It's actually named after an old picnic spot in Lake Charles that was cleared out long before I was even a thought (actually before either of my parents were a thought, WG was cleared out in 1926). From what I've read, it was the most serene, stunning park in Lake Charles. The road leading to this spot was probably the most breathtaking road in the area. Couples often courted in the area down the Lovers Lane bridge. Unfortunately, this place is no more, now being occupied by the Lake Charles port. With that being said, the TND is actually adjacent to the old location of Walnut Grove and the developers are hoping to bring back the warmth and sense of community of the old picnic destination.

The neighborhood will be along Sallier Road in Lake Charles and will be along the contraband bayou. There will be a depot, an alley, and a great lawn for gatherings (much like the old picnic area). Word is that there will be events for the general public as well as resident only affairs. This neighborhood will include retail, townhomes, and apartments. I'd like to see a beinget spot open up! If all goes well, Lake Charles could be on the map after all. What do you think about this development? Are you from Lake Charles? If not are you from Louisiana? If not where are you from? How do you feel about TND's in general?