Sponsored by City of Central

As the City of Central approaches its 20th anniversary, the community has much to celebrate and look forward to. Under Mayor Wade Evans’ leadership, the City of Central remains dedicated to fostering a “hometown” feel that is both inviting and unique. As the city continues to grow, Mayor Evans’s commitment to connecting with residents through engaging community events has been instrumental in maintaining Central’s small-town charm, which is cherished by longtime residents and newcomers alike.

Mayor Evans believes that one of the best ways to cultivate a close-knit community is by creating opportunities for neighbors to gather and celebrate together. Events like the annual Central Christmas Parade, Cooking in Central, community concerts and holiday festivities give residents the chance to connect with one another and build lasting memories. The mayor emphasizes that these events are not just celebrations; they are the heart of Central’s culture, a way to keep traditions alive and reinforce the city’s hometown feel. By bringing people together, these occasions foster the spirit of a close, supportive community—something often hard to find in larger cities.

Education is another cornerstone of Central’s community-oriented lifestyle, and families have a variety of excellent schooling options. The Central Community School System offers a well-regarded public education, emphasizing strong academics, athletics and the arts within a nurturing environment.

For those seeking a faith-based or private school experience, Central Private School is officially SAIS-accredited — one of only eight private schools in Louisiana to earn this honor. This milestone reflects CP’s commitment to a safe, nurturing and faith-based learning environment. Central Private fosters a close-knit community while maintaining a strong commitment to educational achievement.

In addition, St. Alphonsus Catholic School combines a rigorous academic program with a focus on spiritual development, making it an ideal choice for those who value both education and faith.

Looking ahead, the Mainstreet 2030 Vision Plan seeks to guide Central’s development while preserving its unique character. With thoughtful plans to expand infrastructure, the vision is designed to balance the conveniences of city living with the small-town qualities residents love. Mainstreet 2030 plan is not just a roadmap for economic growth; it is a blueprint for community growth, aiming to enhance the quality of life while protecting the character that makes Central special.

As part of Central’s commitment to a sustainable future, Mayor Evans and the city council are actively updating Central’s Master Plan. This effort aims to create a dynamic vision for the next 20 years that will encompass improvements in infrastructure, public spaces, and emergency services. By involving the community in these planning processes, Mayor Evans ensures that residents have a voice in shaping Central’s future, keeping the city’s values at the forefront of development decisions.

As Central nears its two-decade milestone, the city continues to evolve with care and intention. From community events that celebrate the spirit of togetherness to educational choices that support families, Central is a community that values its roots while preparing for an exciting future. With Mayor Evans’s commitment to fostering connections and guiding the city through sustainable growth, Central is poised to embrace the next 20 years with pride and purpose, ensuring that it remains a place where people feel at home.

To learn more about the City of Central, visit online at centralgov.com.