Work on the Steamboat Warehouse Pavilion expansion project continues in downtown New Iberia as the new structure that extends past the old pavilion is coming into view.

Construction workers were out Monday morning continuing the progress of the project, which includes a new stage for bands to perform on during public events as well as a new restroom for Bouligny Plaza after the old restrooms were demolished to make way for a visitor’s information center.

The majority of the foundation work was completed this summer, and now workers are focusing on the stage structure itself, with the tarp of the expanded pavilion already up.

The expanded pavilion is expected to provide a wide range of new opportunities for the Steamboat Warehouse Pavilion and Bouligny Plaza as more festivals and events in New Iberia have been located in the park in downtown New Iberia over the years.

Major festivals like World Championship Gumbo Cookoff and Louisiana Sugar Cane Festival traditionally make use of Bouligny Plaza every year for concerts, fais-do-dos and cooking exhibitions.

The recently completed Felicite’s Landing has also added more water and boating access in New Iberia as well, which has also helped to expand the functions of Bouligny Plaza.