OUR VISION
From the start, Perk Up Perkins has championed a safer, more walkable corridor with both improved crossings and continuous sidewalks. Our first priority was clear: a safer way to cross Perkins Road. Thanks to strong community, private sector, and local government support—including a petition signed by more than 630 neighbors, 30+ local businesses, groups of local moms, and residents who showed up at walk audits and public meetings, that goal has been achieved with the approval and funding of a hybrid pedestrian beacon and improved crosswalk at Ferndale and Perkins.
Led by neighborhood advocates Mysti Byrnes and Julie Gerdes Becnel, and championed by AARP Louisiana, Council Member Jen Racca, Mayor Sid Edwards’ Office, and civic partners like the Center for Planning Excellence, Strong Towns, and Baton Rouge Green, the initiative continues to pursue the broader vision: continuous, accessible sidewalks, upgraded crossings at Hollydale and Cedardale, and design improvements that make the corridor safer, more connected, and more welcoming for all.
The Mission
The crosswalk at Ferndale is a major step forward, but challenges remain. Sidewalk gaps, drainage issues, and obstructed pedestrian routes still make the corridor difficult and unsafe to navigate. Through walk audits, public meetings, and community-led events like Perk Up Perkins Demo Day, neighbors and local businesses have made it clear that a complete street is essential for the future of this corridor. We are now working with the City Parish government to secure funding for new and improved sidewalks, ADA-compliant ramps, and corridor enhancements that will strengthen neighborhood connectivity, support local businesses, and ensure Perkins Road becomes a true people-first place. Together with the continued support of residents, civic partners, and City-Parish leaders, we can build on early success and deliver the safe, vibrant corridor our community deserves.
The Latest
DEMO DAY!
On Saturday, August 16, 2025 we held a demo day to show the public what is possible. Through collaborative partnerships, we brought dozens of plants, used tempra paint to create crosswalks, and brought the community together for a day of fun and exploration.
Thank you to our sponsors who made this event possible
Additional support was given by Tipton Associates and civic partners such as Strong Towns, BREC, EBR Library, and Keep Tiger Town Beautiful.
Perk Up Perkins would not be possible without the incredible support of our local business community. We are grateful to the following businesses for their involvement and generosity in helping us reimagine a safer, more welcoming Perkins Road corridor: Bella Bella, Bolton Health Mart, B-Unlimited, Chow Yum, Digiulio Brothers Italian Cafe, Eloise Market & Cakery, Gail’s Fine Ice Cream, Ivar’s Sports Bar, Jimmy John's, La Divina Italian Cafe, LuLu & Bean, Luna Cocina, Magpie Cafe, Overpass Merchant, Pure Barre, Rock-n-Sake Bar & Sushi, Schlittz & Giggles, The Colonel’s Club, The Face Place, The Royal Standard, Trader Joe’s, Var’s Pizza, Za Za Nail Boutique, Zee Zees, and Zippy’s.
Together, these partners are helping us create a stronger, more connected community. Thank you for supporting the vision of a safer and more vibrant Perkins Road!
MAKING HEADLINES
COMMUNITY VOICES
“I’m legally blind, and this crosswalk would be very helpful. At this point, for me to safely cross Perkins Road, I go to the overpass and go under it and back around to my destination While this method gives me additional exercise, it is not always convenient to do this.”
“This crosswalk would make a REAL difference on Perkins! Currently the drivers do not give pedestrians right of way - even if children are in tow. It would be incredible to have a safe, well-marked, enforced crosswalk.”
TAKE ACTION
Interested in getting involved? We can’t wait to hear from you!
VOICES AND RESOURCES
