Houma Downtown Development Corporation

Houma has been devastated by Hurricane Ida. This grant will help to build Terrebonne Parish back stronger than ever. It will provide opportunities for musicians and residents. Music is everywhere and an integral part of our lives in Terrebonne Parish. Being able to offer it free help brings the community back together. Those who are underprivileged will also be able to enjoy their love of music. Listening to music has countless benefits. It often encourages movement; this helps the elderly to still use their limbs and brain functions without strain. Children gain better control of their bodies while their little minds and bodies work together as one to create intentional movement. Music is a language spoken by everyone that fuels the soul. The elderly and young alike will be affected by the musical sounds. Music is said to enhance intelligence and focus, improve mental health, and boost the immune system as well as self-esteem and confidence. It can be used to relax, to boost and lift our mood, or to improve concentration. Between Covid-19 running rampant and the affects of Hurricane Ida, the town needs something to uplift its people. Being able to gather for a joyous occasion is uplifting and gratifying. Music can inspire and entertain, but it also has powerful psychological effects that can improve your health and well-being. At a time where mental health is at an all time low and affecting even the most unsuspected, the AMP concerts are much needed. It provides a sense of hope, normalcy, motivation, and an economic boost to a city struggling to get back what it has lost.

Previously, Houma had Live After 5, free concerts held monthly which ended due to Covid-19 restrictions. The grant will revitalize the concept and grow it bigger and better. The Luminate Houma Downtown concept, which started to give the local musicians an outlet post Covid-19, can be taken and expanded to reach its full potential. Terrebonne Parish strives to continue educating others on its rich culture.

In the early 1930s, the area was booming with commerce. It had a public school down the street and family housing. There was a local family seafood store, gas station and mechanic shop as well, all located within a two block radius. Over the years, the area became blighted and unsafe due to age and people dying. The area became run down, abandoned, and home to squatters.

Currently, Downtown Marina is a park funded through the KABOOM grant. Funds were provided to put playground equipment in area that has predominantly low-income families. Previously, the area had become run down due to time and neglect. Homeless people would move on the property. Now, it’s a marina open for anyone to dock their boat day or night. The playground is open to the public and is accessible by all via foot, bicycle, public transportation, car, and is ADA accessible. The area is starting to come back to life with the playground and now, the monthly farmer’s market, which has been operating for a year. Providing additional recreational possibilities promote the area as a tourist attraction, encourages family outings, and options for singles. It decreases people getting into trouble for lack of things to do in the area. The larger the availability of things to do decreases the chances of citizens looking outside of the parish to spend their time and money. It causes neighboring residents to visit and see what the hype is all about.