Baton Rouge · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Baton Rouge public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Murphy's Bar expansion and West Chimes Street neighborhood impacts
Murphy's Bar wants to buy the building next door and add an outdoor pavilion, doubling its footprint near LSU. Neighbors and Lotus lounge staff described noise until 2-3 a.m., trash, fights, and discrimination claims; the owner countered with a clean law-enforcement record and sound-mitigation agreements. The commission approved the rezone 7-0, but the Metro Council has final say.
Florida Boulevard commercial rezonings (17060 and 17510/17590)
Two stretches of Florida Boulevard east of Stevendale and Old Hammond could shift from rural/residential designations to commercial, including heavy commercial. Neighbors turned out in opposition, but the commission forwarded all four related items to the council unanimously.
Florida Boulevard rezoning and Old Hammond Highway flooding and traffic
Neighbors from Riverview Drive opposed rezoning 17060 Florida Boulevard to commercial, citing 2016 flood losses, a drainage ditch through the property, potential fuel tanks, and brutal traffic on two-lane Old Hammond Highway. The commission deferred the case so the applicant can consider dropping the Old Hammond frontage.
Scenic Highway industrial rezoning
Five parcels along Scenic Highway could shift from a neighborhood-centered future to industrial use. Residents near the corridor may see industrial neighbors move in; supporters argue it matches surrounding industry.
Plan Baton Rouge III Small Area Plan
A new plan for downtown's historic core could shape future development, land use, and investment from the river to Choctaw Drive. It now goes to the Metro Council.