IBERIA PARISH, La. (KLFY) — Much needed improvements are underway on Hopkins Street in New Iberia, but Mayor Freddie DeCourt says this may impact businesses and residents along the highway.

“This is a state project, not a city project, but my citizens are going to be inconvenienced by it,” said DeCourt.

The highly anticipated rework of Hopkins Street will be a large drainage project and overlay of the highway. The road will be shut down where construction will be taking place then re-opened when that area is complete. During the construction, businesses in the area where the road is shut down will experience issues with accessibility.

Renny Keal who is the owner of Hopkins Street Quick Stop, says previous construction by the shop has caused issues with business. He anticipates similar issues.

“That’s how people live and provide. With that being said, they can’t come down to the main street like my store and other stores down here, like it’s going to take a big time. I wish they had another pattern to work on this. On the drainage issue.”

The inevitable inconvenience with the project will be addressed in an upcoming meeting set up by Mayor DeCourt.

“I’ve invited the state contractor to come,” said mayor DeCourt. Hopefully it’s just a positive thing to communicate to my citizens how they’ll be impacted by a project that in the end will be beneficial.”

The townhall meeting will be on Monday April 14 at 5 p.m. in the west end park gym. Everyone in the community is invited.

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