Drop in activity: Baton Rouge area home sales are down 19% through the first six months of 2009 as the effects of the national recession continue in the area. According to figures from the Greater Baton Rouge Association of Realtors Multiple Listing Service, there were 3,298 homes sold in the metro region through June, compared to 4,083 through June 2008. The average sale price was down 6.5%, from $207,072 in 2008 to $193,548. Local real estate officials say the housing market remains fairly strong because employment remains high locally. But tight credit markets and consumer unease are causing a slowdown in sales.
Going into old D’Agostino’s spot: Lucy’s Retired Surfer Bar and Restaurant, a New Orleans Warehouse district eatery, plans to open a location on Third Street. Bruce Rampick, who owns Lucy’s, says a lease has been signed for the old D’Agostino’s/Café Mediterranean space and an adjoining 1,100 square feet. “We’re shooting for a September opening,” Rampick says. Lucy’s specializes in California surf shack dishes, such as fish tacos, sandwiches and salads.
