Shreveport, LA, September 29, 2025
News Summary
Shreveport has partnered with rapper Curtis ’50 Cent’ Jackson to create a $50 million entertainment district, aimed at revitalizing downtown and boosting the local economy. The project includes improvements to Millennium Studios and Stage Works Studio, and aims to establish a vibrant cultural hub. Local support has been strong, with proposals to honor the area’s heritage, and the initiative is considered one of the largest economic developments in the region.
Shreveport has officially partnered with rapper Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson to redevelop downtown. The Shreveport City Council approved a transformative $50 million entertainment district project that is set to revitalize the area and boost local economic activity. Construction for the new entertainment district is expected to begin in the fourth quarter of this year or the first quarter of next year.
The project specifically includes much-needed improvements to Millennium Studios, which has been facing existing flooding issues, as well as enhancements at Shreveport’s Stage Works Studio for production, which have already commenced. The initiative aims to create a vibrant space that supports film, television services, and job opportunities in the region.
In support of this redevelopment effort, Shreveport resident Craig Lee proposed rebranding the district as the Sam Cooke Cultural Arts District to honor the city’s rich cultural heritage. Local business owners have come forth expressing their support for 50 Cent’s project, citing its potential to invigorate economic activity in the downtown area.
District A Councilwoman Tabatha Taylor emphasized that this initiative is among the largest economic developments in Shreveport and the surrounding region, while Council member James Green highlighted that the potential rewards of the project outweigh public caution. 50 Cent is reportedly investing $50 million of his own money into this endeavor, which includes establishing a Film and Entertainment Gateway Economic Development District.
The proposed district will implement a 2% sales tax within its borders, with all tax revenue allocated to fund a dedicated trust for redevelopment initiatives. A companion ordinance has been established to govern the trust fund’s operational procedures and spending rules. Mayor Tom Arceneaux pointed out that this financial approach is designed to enhance public infrastructure without tapping into citywide resources.
Bond attorney Michael Busada explained that the project operates on a “success-dependent incentive” model, ensuring that no city funds will be utilized upfront, thus protecting the city from financial loss if the project does not meet its objectives. However, concerns have been raised regarding the protection of long-time downtown property owners amidst the revitalization efforts. The Council members have reassured the community of their commitment to enhance existing businesses rather than engage in competition with them.
While many see promise in the redevelopment plans, some council members remain skeptical due to past failures of prior high-profile projects within the city. A public hearing was conducted before the vote on the ordinance to gauge community sentiments on this endeavor.
Management of the district will be overseen by a nonprofit corporation, governed by a seven-member board that will be nominated by the mayor and confirmed by the council. All projects funded by the district will be required to support film, television services, or create job opportunities for local residents.
Key Features of the Entertainment District Project
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Investment | $50 million by 50 Cent |
| District Name Proposal | Sam Cooke Cultural Arts District |
| Sales Tax | 2% within district boundaries |
| Governance | Nonprofit corporation with a seven-member board |
| Construction Start Date | Q4 of this year or Q1 of next year |
| Economic Development Significance | Largest in Shreveport and region |
| Use of Funds | Develop trust for redevelopment projects |
| Focus of Projects | Film, TV services, job creation |
FAQ
What is the project about?
Shreveport has officially partnered with rapper Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson to redevelop downtown. The Shreveport City Council approved a transformative $50 million entertainment district project that is set to revitalize the area and boost local economic activity.
When will construction start?
Construction for the new entertainment district is expected to begin in the fourth quarter of this year or the first quarter of next year.
What improvements are being made?
The project includes much-needed improvements to Millennium Studios, which has been facing existing flooding issues, as well as enhancements at Shreveport’s Stage Works Studio for production.
What is the proposed name for the district?
Shreveport resident Craig Lee proposed rebranding the district as the Sam Cooke Cultural Arts District to honor the city’s rich cultural heritage.
How will the project be financed?
The proposed district will implement a 2% sales tax within its borders, with all tax revenue allocated to fund a dedicated trust for redevelopment initiatives.
Who will manage the district?
Management of the district will be overseen by a nonprofit corporation, governed by a seven-member board that will be nominated by the mayor and confirmed by the council.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
50 Cent Expands Entertainment in Shreveport
Sehjal Gupta: A Fresh Voice in Sports Journalism
Shreveport Partners with 50 Cent for Downtown Redevelopment
50 Cent Invests $50 Million to Boost Shreveport’s Entertainment Scene
Shreveport to Emerge as New Film Hub Thanks to Major Investment
Festive Fashion Trends to Enhance Your Wardrobe
Shreveport Job Fair Provides Local Employment Opportunities
Women’s Philanthropy Network Celebrates 20 Years of Impact
Jimmy Kimmel’s Comeback Ignites Controversy
Growing Political Tensions After Shooting Incident
Additional Resources
- KTBS News
- Wikipedia: Shreveport
- Vibe
- Google Search: 50 Cent Shreveport Entertainment District
- Chronicle
- Google Scholar: Shreveport entertainment district
- Black Enterprise
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Shreveport
- Louisiana Radio Network
- Google News: 50 Cent Shreveport Entertainment District
Author: STAFF HERE SHREVEPORT WRITER
The SHREVEPORT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREShreveport.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Shreveport, Caddo Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mudbug Madness Festival, Red River Revel Arts Festival, and Independence Bowl. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Shreveport-Bossier Chamber of Commerce and Shreveport Regional Arts Council, plus leading businesses in gaming, healthcare, and energy that power the local economy such as Horseshoe Casino, Ochsner LSU Health, and Atmos Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBatonRouge.com and HERENewOrleans.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.
