Our Start
BR Choice began as a bold vision to rebuild Baton Rouge from the inside out. Starting with housing, progress was powered by people and strengthened through partnership, laying the groundwork for long-term community revitalization.
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Progress and Planning
Documenting the strategic journey of rebuilding North Baton Rouge through collaborative investment and community-driven change.
Initial Phases
During the early phases, the focus was on stabilizing families through safe, modern homes and establishing trust between families, stakeholders, and local leadership. As progress grew, investment expanded beyond housing to include business growth, infrastructure, and cultural spaces that connect people to opportunity.
Today
Today, BR Choice continues to bridge federal, local, and community planning to create meaningful, measurable change. Every investment, whether in homes, streets, or small businesses, is part of a coordinated strategy to ensure Baton Rouge thrives for generations.
Measuring Our Impact
Holistic strategies that address community needs from multiple perspectives.
$400+
Investment Leveraged
$32M in HUD Choice Neighborhoods funding has leveraged more than $400M in public and private redevelopment across the BR Choice area.
250+
Health & Wellness Connections
Neighbors gain ed access to primary care, nutrition education, wellness programs, and preventive health services through coordinated community partnerships.
500+
Neighbors Served
Individuals at Ardenwood Village have participated in education, healthcare, workforce, and wellness programs since 2019.
Planning Documentation
Foundational plans and reports that guide development, investment priorities, and long-term strategy.
Information about Choice Neighborhood Initiative (CNI) requirements from HUD.
The BR Choice Executive Summary outlines the vision for transforming the East Fairfield, Smiley Heights, and Melrose East neighborhoods through a focus on resiliency, placemaking, and innovation. It highlights strategies to strengthen housing, support economic opportunity, and guide community-driven redevelopment that builds a resilient neighborhood.
The Ardendale Master Plan sets the foundation for a new kind of community in Baton Rouge, one designed around people, connection, and opportunity. Walkable streets, mixed housing, public spaces, and thoughtful urban design guide development toward a vibrant neighborhood where daily life, learning, and community activity can flourish.
The BR Choice Transformation Plan outlines a comprehensive strategy to revitalize the Smiley Heights and Melrose East neighborhoods in north Baton Rouge. Developed through extensive community engagement and research, the plan focuses on strengthening housing, improving neighborhood conditions, and expanding opportunities for families. The plan aligns investments in education, economic development, public safety, and quality housing to establish a framework for building a stronger, more connected community of opportunity.
See the overall layout of our revitalized neighborhood.
A guided look at the housing strategy for our neighborhood.
Measurable Progress
Reports and data that track outcomes, progress, and accountability across BR Choice initiatives.
This report outlines the progress, impact, and next steps of the BR Choice Neighborhoods Initiative. It is comprehensive effort to transform housing, strengthen neighborhoods, and expand opportunity in the Capital Region. The document highlights key milestones, community investments, economic impact, and strategic priorities leading up to 2026, reinforcing our commitment to sustainable communities and long-term growth.
Partners in Transformation
A Collaborative Effort
BR Choice’s strength lies in its partnerships. With public agencies, private investors, and local advocates working toward the same goal, we are building an equitable, thriving Baton Rouge.
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Join the Transformation
Be part of the movement creating community in Baton Rouge
