Construction workers ready the ground for a walkway to be built between Iris and Kirby streets Wednesday on property acquired by Empire of the Seed, owned by Rick Richard. Iris Hall, in background, is to be transformed into an event space for rental. The structure, built in 1925, once served as the Catholic Diocese of Lake Charles Chancery building. Renovation work will begin this year on the interior of the storm-damaged building. Next will come construction of Bird Cage Cafe on property across the street.

“Hopefully Iris Hall will be completed in 2025,” said spokesperson Donna Richard. “After that project, then Bird Cage Cafe begins. We wanted to  beautify the property on Kirby with trees and a walkway while waiting for these other projects to get underway.”