The Lafayette Parish School System (LPSS) is moving forward with plans to build the new Ovey Comeaux Workforce Innovation Academy at the former Ovey Comeaux High School campus, located at 100 W. Bluebird Drive in Lafayette.
The new academy will more than double the capacity of the district’s existing Career Center, which is currently operating at capacity with students waiting for available seats. The expanded facility will offer more opportunities for students to receive hands-on training and earn industry-recognized credentials in fields such as welding, manufacturing, construction trades, and other high-demand careers.
The project comes as Acadiana prepares for significant economic development, including SpaceX’s planned facility in neighboring Vermilion Parish, which is expected to bring thousands of direct and indirect jobs to the region.
The Lafayette Parish School Board recently approved up to $14 million in interim funding from the district’s Economic Stabilization Fund to begin construction-related activities while delaying long-term borrowing until early 2027, when borrowing conditions may be more favorable. The funds will be replenished once bonds are issued.
“We can’t afford to lose three months on a project this important,” said LPSS Superintendent Francis Touchet, Jr. “This gives us the flexibility to move forward with construction, stay on schedule and look for a better opportunity to issue the bonds early next year.”
The new Ovey Comeaux Workforce Innovation Academy is expected to be completed for the 2028-2029 school year.
