Perk Up Perkins Represents Baton Rouge at AARP Walkability for All Workshop

Perk Up Perkins had the honor of presenting at the Walkability for All Workshop at the Lod Cook Conference Center, hosted by AARP Louisiana along with partners America Walks and Strong Towns. The event brought together community leaders, transportation advocates, planners, accessibility experts, and citizen change makers who are all working toward one shared goal: creating streets and neighborhoods that are safe, connected, and accessible for people of all ages and abilities.

One of the highlights from the workshop was receiving a proclamation from Governor Landry, recognizing the work being done through Perk Up Perkins to advance safer streets and walkable neighborhoods. That recognition validates not only our project, but the movement growing around it.

Perk Up Perkins organizers Julie Gerdes Becnel and Mysti Byrnes with the proclamation from Governor Landry.

We were proud to present the Perk Up Perkins project during the workshop and to lead one of the network walks, giving participants a firsthand look at the opportunities—and challenges—along the corridor.

• AARP Louisiana

• America Walks

• Strong Towns

• Build Baton Rouge

• CPEX

• State agency representatives

• The Governor’s Office of Disability Affairs

• And many more organizations and advocates

The workshop strengthened existing relationships and sparked new partnerships that will help move this work forward. We also shared that while we are thrilled our long-needed crosswalk will be covered using MOVEBR funds, we also know walkability doesn’t stop at a single crossing.

Our vision includes:

• Safe sidewalks

• ADA-compliant access

• Landscaping and shade

• Traffic-calming designs

• A corridor that feels welcoming and not hazardous

Perk Up Perkins started as a neighborhood initiative with neighbors seeing a need and refusing to accept the status quo. We're grateful to everyone who champions this work and to those joining the movement now.

We’ll share updates as the project continues through planning, funding, and implementation steps. In the meantime, your involvement matters.

Thanks for walking with us. The future of the Perkins Road corridor is bright and walkable!