Shreveport, Louisiana, October 3, 2025
News Summary
Shreveport, Louisiana, is projected to create 74,500 new jobs over the next two years, representing a growth rate of 3.7% for 2026 and 2027. Major investments, including a $21 million expansion by Benteler Steel/Tube Manufacturing, are contributing to this growth. The region’s tech and logistics sectors are also expanding with organizations like Amazon hiring significantly. While challenges remain, such as concerns over federal policies and tariffs, local educational advancements and economic vitality provide optimism for the community’s future.
Shreveport, Louisiana is witnessing substantial economic growth, with projections indicating the creation of 74,500 new jobs over the next two years. This increase represents a growth rate of 3.7% anticipated for 2026 and 2027 as reported in the 2025/2026 Economic Outlook. Dr. Loren Scott, a respected economist, forecasts that the local Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) could exceed the job growth prediction of 5,700 jobs, which equates to a growth rate of 3.3%.
Enhancing job creation is a series of significant investments and expansions in the region. One prominent development is Benteler Steel/Tube Manufacturing’s $21 million expansion at the Port of Caddo-Bossier, which promises to generate 49 new jobs. In addition, a new warehouse spanning 40,000 square feet was inaugurated at the Port of Caddo-Bossier in December 2024, further contributing to local job opportunities.
An extensive plan from the Port of Caddo-Bossier has highlighted potential for retail, office, and manufacturing on 1,000 acres of recently acquired land. This plan is part of a broader initiative to revitalize local economic operations and create sustainable jobs in the community.
The exponential growth in technology and logistics sectors is mirrored by the activities at prominent organizations such as Amazon and Imperial Trading Company. Amazon’s SHV1 facility on Cyber Monday 2024 reported an employee count of 2,200, while SLB at the old GM plant is poised to reach 800, signaling further possibilities for expansion.
Amidst this economic boom, Dr. Scott has identified challenges that could temper growth. He expressed concerns about federal policies, particularly tariffs, which may lead to slower economic growth. Moreover, future interest rate hikes might complicate project financing and escalate housing costs, further influencing overall economic performance in the region. Scott anticipates that these tariffs could slow a forecasted GDP increase of 1.5% in 2025, followed by 1.8% in 2026, and 2.5% in 2027, despite the favorable impact of President Trump’s tax reforms.
Shreveport’s recovering job market brings mixed signals. Unemployment rose to 5% in June 2024, demonstrating shifts in workforce demographics. However, Douglas White noted that Q2 2024 was marked by robust tax collections and air travel, revealing underlying economic vitality. The expanding casino market also played a significant role, generating a net revenue increase of $11 million due to operations initiated by Live! Casino.
Additionally, considerable technological advancements are expected with plans for a new data center exceeding 1 million square feet at the Resilient Technology Park in west Shreveport. This facility is projected to further boost job growth and create numerous employment opportunities in cybersecurity and data center operations.
Educational advancements have also contributed positively to the local economy. Enrollment at Louisiana State University Shreveport (LSUS) has more than doubled since 2016, indicating an upward trend in education aligned with job market dynamics. Local organizations, such as the North Louisiana Economic Partnership (NLEP), are striving to attract investment by repurposing the former Libbey Glass manufacturing site into a competitive hub for modern manufacturing jobs.
In summary, as the economy in Shreveport and the surrounding areas gets revitalized with investments, expansions, and forecasts of job growth, local stakeholders are committed to enhancing collaboration and revitalization of historical sites aiming for sustainable growth and job creation.
FAQ
What is the projected job growth in Shreveport, Louisiana over the next two years?
Shreveport, Louisiana is projected to create 74,500 new jobs over the next two years, representing a growth rate of 3.7% in 2026 and 2027.
What is the expansion project at the Port of Caddo-Bossier?
Benteler Steel/Tube Manufacturing announced a $21 million expansion at the Port of Caddo-Bossier, which will create 49 jobs.
What negative factors could impact economic growth in Shreveport?
Dr. Scott expressed concerns about uncertainties from Washington policies, especially regarding tariffs, which are causing a decline in local economic optimism and could slow economic growth.
How has local education contributed to economic growth?
University enrollment has more than doubled at LSUS since 2016, highlighting an educational growth trend amidst job market fluctuations.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Speaker of the House Mike Johnson Addresses Local Business Concerns
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Mike Johnson Addresses Business Leaders in Bossier City
Additional Resources
- Shreveport-Bossier Advocate: Economic Growth Projection
- KTAL News: Shreveport Economy Stagnant
- KSLA News: North LA Economic Partnership
- Bossier Press: Local Economy Insights
- KTBS: Independence Bowl Impact on Economy
- Wikipedia: Shreveport, Louisiana
- Google Search: Shreveport economy
- Google Scholar: Shreveport economic growth
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Shreveport
- Google News: Shreveport economy
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.
