Potential barriers

Inexpensive real estate, available space, a downtown employment base (as the Vernon Parish seat), and the proximity of Fort Polk make downtown an easy place to foster restaurant development. But an entrepreneur will face a number of barriers downtown:

• Foot traffic is currently very light, despite visits generated by the Courthouse and Parish offices.
• Building configurations may require creative design and adaptation.
• Most buildings, though inexpensive, require substantial investment, ADA compliance, and a kitchen.
• There are perceived parking limitations downtown (although, in practice, on-street parking is generally available).
• It’s easier to develop on 171, where building configurations and parking are more flexible.
• Traditional financing for a downtown restaurant will be difficult to secure.

Contrary to some local perceptions, liquor licensing ordinances do not present a barrier to development of a restaurant in most of the historic downtown core. The ordinance prohibits liquor sales within 300 feet of a playground or a “church, synagogue, public library, or school.” The majority of buildings on Third Street between Mechanic Street and Lula Street are more than 300 feet from these institutions.