There are distinct advantages to doing business in Broussard over other Acadiana communities. With a strong foundation, the City of Broussard is able to foster an economy that supports a rapidly growing population. Broussard, Louisiana is located 6 miles SE of Lafayette, Louisiana, and 113 miles West of New Orleans. Our town is considered a part of the Lafayette metropolitan area and is in the heart of Cajun Country.
History
Originally named Côte Gelée (Frozen Hills) because of its hilly ridge area and the severe winter of 1784, Broussard, La., was founded in 1884. It was named after Valsin Broussard, a prominent local merchant, who formed the first vigilante committee when his own store was robbed. He was also a direct descendant of Joseph Gaurhept Broussard de Beau Soleil, one of the first 200 Acadians to arrive in Louisiana on February 27, 1765, aboard the Santo Domingo. (City of Broussard)
Primarily an agricultural center in its early history, the area was settled by the descendants of French-speaking Acadians (Cajuns) in the late eighteenth century. The construction of a railroad line through the farming community in the early part of the twentieth century helped to spur the development of the area in a trading and retail hub. The development of petroleum mining activity off of the Louisiana Gulf Coast in the latter part of the twentieth century and the fact Broussard lies on a major north/south highway, namely US Highway 90, once again advanced growth of commercial activity in the community into the oil and gas manufacturing and services industry.
Diverse Industry
Today, Broussard is in the midst of a boom in residential development as land once reserved for agriculture has given way to demands for new subdivisions. Many new businesses have begun to move to Broussard, including manufacturing, medical insurance, financial services, and real estate, among others. (Broussard Chamber of Commerce)
Tax Benefits & Incentives
With no state or city property taxes, building in Broussard has its advantages. The Broussard Permitting and Licensing office is happy to help you apply for a permit. Electric, water, and wastewater services are among the lowest priced in the state. Federal, State, and local governments provide an assortment of business incentives that are available to incoming companies and to those existing within Lafayette Parish. Financing, tax abatements, and training programs are a few examples of the benefits available.
Workforce
Broussard employs more than 12,000 workers. A highly educated workforce is emerging as more students are enrolling and graduating from the local university and community college. Local businesses are also taking advantage of development and training programs to educate and enhance the skills of their new and existing employees.
Market Access
Broussard’s proximity to the intersection of Interstates 10 and 49, as well as Highway 90, is a strategic advantage in transportation and accessibility into and out of the parish. Additionally, Broussard has direct rail access, including an open-source spur less than three miles away, and can be reached easily by the Lafayette Regional Airport and the Intercoastal Waterway.
We are committed to taking into account our entire community when considering economic development opportunities, especially those that impact this “small-town” quality of life. If you are interested in new development or expansion of your existing business in the Broussard, LA area the Broussard Economic Development Center is available to guide you through available opportunities. Contact Us