"The university recognizes this as a unique opportunity to partner
with benefactors, Community Foundation of Acadiana,
Lafayette Consolidated Government, and local residents
to create an invaluable community asset with the Horse Farm property."
-UL Lafayette President Dr. Joseph Savoie
There has been much public interest in preserving this large green space near the center of the city known as the Horse Farm. According to Dr. Savoie, this is a very special tract of land because of its size, its location in the center of Lafayette, and its natural beauty."
"Initiatives that allow us to engage philanthropists to improve the community are at the heart of our mission, and we are honored to play a role. As an independent body, we see our role as facilitating the development of a space which highlights the tranquility of the property, improves our collective quality of life, and brings the community together," said Raymond Hebert, Executive Director, Community Foundation of Acadiana.
On July 29, 2010 City-Parish President Joey Durel proposed a Five-Year Capital Improvement Budget that begins fiscal year 2010-11.
Part of Durel’s plan calls for Lafayette Consolidated Government to pay the appraised value of the University of Louisiana at Lafayette's 100 acres of land on Johnston Street, commonly referred to as the Horse Farm. Community Foundation of Acadiana, a nonprofit organization, will be responsible for raising funds needed for the design, build-out and perpetual maintenance of the property as a public park. The plan calls for a 99-year term Cooperative Endeavor Agreement between Lafayette Consolidated Government and the Foundation for the development and maintenance of the property.
As of yet, all property agreements among Lafayette Consolidated Government, UL Lafayette and Community Foundation of Acadiana require approval of the Lafayette City-Parish Council.
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