Months of construction work is finally starting to show results as the structural steel framing for the Steamboat Warehouse Pavilion Expansion Project came up this month.

The framing is located at the former empty space between the pavilion and the Bayou Teche, where a new stage is being constructed from scratch to expand the capacity of the Steamboat Warehouse Pavilion for concerts and events.

Architect David Allain said the project is currently about 40% completed.

“Having accomplished the majority of the foundation work, the project is now transitioning into the construction of the main stage pavilion and restroom building,” Allain said. In the upcoming months, the building’s form and design will truly begin to emerge, offering an exciting spectacle for curious onlookers eager to witness its transformation.”

The project was originally part of the City of New Iberia’s Master Plan and has since come into reality following the City Council’s approval to award a contract to Cuzan Services LLC. last year using American Rescue Plan Act funds.

The usable area of the pavilion is expected to expand greatly thanks to the new stage, which will include new restrooms for Bouligny Plaza located underneath the stage.

Bouligny Plaza has become a hot spot for New Iberia events and festivals over the years, including hosting the World Championship Gumbo Cookoff and Louisiana Sugar Cane Festival fais-do-dos.

The expansion is one of several projects undertaken by Mayor Freddie DeCourt’s administration over the past several years to give Bouligny Plaza a facelift. Those have included the demolition of the former restrooms in order to create a visitor’s center for tourists.

Allain said that an exciting development arose when the mayor informed them that the city had been preserving a substantial stockpile of original bricks from the historic Steamboat Warehouse. 

“Incorporating these authentic materials into the project allows us to infuse a piece of the city’s heritage into the new construction, adding unique and historically architectural character,” Allain said. 

Other recent developments in Bouligny Plaza include the Veteran’s Memorial, a project that the Iberia Veterans Association tried to fund for years until it was taken over by the city.