Gerard Barousse, Jr. is founder and Chairman of the Bayou District Foundation, the lead organization in the planning and development of Columbia Parc – a 52 acre “holistic community model” which includes affordable housing, cradle-to-college education, and wellness/recreational amenities to improve quality of life – all built on the site of the former St. Bernard Public Housing Project.
Since it’s opening in 2010, Columbia Parc has been 100% occupied. Crime has reduced by nearly 100%. Most importantly, 94% of the children who come through the Columbia Parc-area early education programs arrive to kindergarten on-grade and ready to succeed.
Gerry is credited as the driving force, master planner and face for the Bayou District Foundation. He has led every step of its development and continues to lead through the latter stages of the Columbia Parc Community – which has become a national model for success in revitalization.