Shreveport, LA, October 25, 2025
News Summary
The Celebrate Downtown Legacy event in Shreveport highlights the city’s historical milestones while introducing new economic development initiatives. Scheduled for Tuesday, the event includes the approval of an economic development district, a local sales tax for redevelopment, and a new entertainment district to enhance the cultural scene. Additionally, the Block-by-Block initiative is entering Phase II, and pilot makeover programs are being planned for local neighborhoods. The news also includes an investment from G-Unit Studios aimed at establishing a film hub downtown.
Shreveport Prepares for Celebrate Downtown Legacy Event and New Economic Development Initiatives
The Celebrate Downtown Legacy event in Shreveport is scheduled for Tuesday to acknowledge the city’s historical milestones and future initiatives. This event commemorates three significant historic milestones for the city, highlighting advancements and achievements that have shaped Shreveport.
On September 23, the Shreveport City Council approved the creation of an economic development district in downtown Shreveport. This district will implement a 2 percent local sales tax aimed at funding redevelopment projects that are expected to rejuvenate the area economically and socially.
Shreveport Mayor Tom Arceneaux addressed a new ordinance focused on an entertainment district located between Commerce and the parkway, and Texas and Commerce streets. This initiative aims to foster a vibrant cultural scene that will benefit citizens and attract visitors. The next city council meeting is also set for September 23, with a work session planned for the day before.
Additionally, only two community sweeps remain in the Block-by-Block initiative, with the next one scheduled for September 13, starting at Airport Park in the Mooretown neighborhood. Following the completion of these community sweeps, the initiative will transition into Phase II, which is anticipated to take further steps to bolster community engagement and improvement.
Furthermore, plans for pilot makeover programs are underway for the Mooretown and Highland neighborhoods, with details expected to be released by the end of the year. Mayor Arceneaux has requested public patience regarding complexities related to G-Unit investments, which include Millennium property leases and state benefits.
In 2024, 50 Cent’s G-Unit Studios acquired several properties in downtown Shreveport to establish a film and entertainment hub. 50 Cent has expressed his support for the city and its initiatives on social media, posting positive vibes for Shreveport’s art, entertainment, and film sectors.
Key Features of the Event and Initiatives
- Event Date: Tuesday
- Economic Development District Approval: September 23
- Community Sweeps: Last scheduled for September 13
- Phase II Transition: Post community sweeps
- Pilot Makeover Programs: Targeting Mooretown and Highland neighborhoods
- 50 Cent’s G-Unit Studios Investment: Acquired properties in 2024
Further Context
The initiatives in Shreveport are aimed at revitalizing downtown and enhancing the living and cultural experience for residents. The Celebrate Downtown Legacy event serves as a focal point to bring together community members, stakeholders, and civic leaders to reflect on the past while looking ahead to promising developments. The new economic district and entertainment ordinance represent a strategic move to develop the area’s economic potential, attracting investments and creating jobs.
Community engagement through initiatives such as Block-by-Block is vital, as it fosters a sense of belonging and encourages citizen involvement in shaping their neighborhoods. As projects move forward, they carry the promise of revitalizing not only the physical landscape of Shreveport but also the economic and cultural prosperity of the city.
FAQ
What is the Celebrate Downtown Legacy event about?
The Celebrate Downtown Legacy event in Shreveport is scheduled for Tuesday to acknowledge the city’s historical milestones and future initiatives.
What economic initiatives are planned for Shreveport?
On September 23, the Shreveport City Council approved the creation of an economic development district in downtown Shreveport which will implement a 2 percent local sales tax aimed at funding redevelopment projects.
How will the Block-by-Block initiative progress?
Only two community sweeps remain in the Block-by-Block initiative, scheduled for September 13, starting at Airport Park in the Mooretown neighborhood. Following the completion of the community sweeps, the initiative will transition to Phase II.
What are the plans for the Mooretown and Highland neighborhoods?
Plans for pilot makeover programs are underway for the Mooretown and Highland neighborhoods, with details expected to be released by the end of the year.
What is G-Unit’s involvement in Shreveport?
In 2024, 50 Cent’s G-Unit Studios acquired several properties in downtown Shreveport to establish a film and entertainment hub.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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State Fair of Louisiana Set to Return with New Policies
Mayor Withdraws Proposed Water Bill Surcharge in Shreveport
Shreveport Launches Economic Development One-Stop-Shop Website
Northwest Louisiana Experiences Economic Growth Surge
Shreveport Hotel Renovation Stalls Amid Community Outcry
Shreveport Hotel Renovation Faces Continued Delays
Shreveport to Celebrate Inaugural Chicken & Blues Festival
Shreveport Launches Economic Development One-Stop-Shop
Bossier Chamber Hosts Public Policy Luncheon with Legislators
Additional Resources
- KTBS: Shreveport’s Downtown Development Authority Plans Legacy Celebration
- KSLA: Shreveport Police & DDA Host Downtown Stakeholder Meeting
- Shreveport Times: 50 Cent Responds to Economic Development District Approval
- KTAL: Shreveport Mayor Addresses Community Issues
- The Center Square: Shreveport Economic Development Updates
- Wikipedia: Shreveport
- Google Search: Shreveport Economic Development
- Google Scholar: Shreveport Development
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Shreveport
- Google News: Shreveport News

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.

