Bossier City, LA, October 26, 2025
News Summary
Bossier City Mayor Tommy Chandler is focused on revitalizing the Louisiana Boardwalk due to recent store closures, including Sweet Caroline’s and Hooters. Mayor Chandler aims to boost local businesses by fostering a more appealing shopping environment and supporting new tenant partnerships. Recent openings, like the golf and entertainment venue Chasing Aces, and the upcoming pickleball franchise The Picklr, are part of a broader strategy to enhance the Boardwalk’s offerings and attract more visitors.
Bossier City Mayor Aims to Revitalize Louisiana Boardwalk Amid Increasing Store Closures
In Bossier City, Louisiana, concerns are growing as multiple stores have recently closed at the Louisiana Boardwalk. Mayor Tommy Chandler has identified revitalizing the Boardwalk as one of his primary goals during his second term in office, emphasizing the need to boost local business and create a more appealing environment for shoppers and tenants alike.
Recent closures have included Sweet Caroline’s Dueling Piano Bar, which operated for just over a year, and Hooters, a long-standing fixture that was in business for nearly 20 years. These closures exemplify a troubling trend for the Boardwalk, prompting Mayor Chandler to take action. He has met with the owners and managers of the Boardwalk, expressing his support for their efforts to attract new businesses to the location.
During discussions, Mayor Chandler stressed the importance of fostering a “business-friendly” environment as a crucial factor in retaining existing businesses and attracting new ones. In light of these recent challenges, city officials held a Zoom meeting that included Todd Routh, the owner of the Boardwalk, along with local council members and the Executive Director of the Greater Bossier Economic Development Foundation. Concerns were raised about the management practices at the Boardwalk, and there was a strong call for a more strategic approach to attracting tenants.
Routh Properties LLC purchased the Boardwalk property for $30.5 million in August 2022. However, criticism has emerged regarding tenant retention and overall management of the property. In response to ongoing issues, city officials are urging Routh to secure new retail establishments and restaurants by the end of the second quarter of 2026.
In a small victory for the Boardwalk, Chasing Aces, a new golf and entertainment venue, recently opened its doors. This facility features 30 golf swing bays, an 18-hole putting course, and baseball batting cages, aiming to draw more visitors to the area. Additionally, a new lease has been signed for The Picklr, a pickleball franchise, which will take up residence in the former Nike store and occupy a nearby storefront totaling 40,000 square feet. The Picklr aims to include 10 courts, a pro shop, and a private event area, enhancing the Boardwalk’s offerings as a community hub for fitness and recreation. This facility is scheduled to open in late 2025 and is part of a broader expansion plan across North America.
Mayor Chandler expressed optimism regarding potential developments at the Boardwalk, particularly by drawing inspiration from successful examples in the nearby Eastbank District. He also plans to negotiate further with Routh to discuss future strategies for the Boardwalk, highlighting his belief in the area’s significant value and potential for revitalization.
Conclusion
As Bossier City faces challenges with recent store closures at the Louisiana Boardwalk, city officials, led by Mayor Chandler, are committed to revitalizing the area. By fostering a more business-friendly environment, attracting new tenants, and supporting promising developments like Chasing Aces and The Picklr, there is hope for reinvigoration of this popular retail and leisure destination.
FAQs
What recent store closures have occurred at the Louisiana Boardwalk?
Recent closures included Sweet Caroline’s Dueling Piano Bar, which operated for just over a year, and Hooters, which was in business for nearly 20 years.
What initiatives is Mayor Tommy Chandler promoting for revitalization?
Mayor Chandler is aiming to boost business and has met with Boardwalk owners to support their efforts to attract new businesses. He emphasizes the importance of a “business-friendly” environment.
What new developments have been announced at the Boardwalk?
Chasing Aces, a new golf and entertainment venue, has opened, featuring 30 golf swing bays, an 18-hole putting course, and baseball batting cages. Additionally, The Picklr, a pickleball franchise, has signed a lease to occupy 40,000 square feet and is expected to open in late 2025.
What are the concerns expressed by Bossier City officials?
Officials have raised concerns about the management of the Boardwalk and the need for a better plan to attract tenants since Routh Properties LLC purchased the property.
When do officials hope to have new tenants secured?
Officials are pushing for new retail establishments and restaurants to be secured by the end of the second quarter of 2026.
Chart: Key Features of the Revitalization Efforts at Louisiana Boardwalk
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Recent Store Closures | Sweet Caroline’s Dueling Piano Bar, Hooters |
| Owner of Boardwalk | Routh Properties LLC |
| New Venue Opened | Chasing Aces |
| New Lease Signed | The Picklr (40,000 square feet) |
| Target for New Tenants | End of Q2 2026 |
| Planned Opening for The Picklr | Late 2025 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Caddo Parish Considers $10 Million Pickleball Complex
Shreveport’s Restaurant Industry Struggles Amid Seafood Fraud Concerns
Shreveport-Bossier Area Faces Restaurant Closures Amid Economic Hardships
Shreveport Job Fair Provides Local Employment Opportunities
Bossier City Welcomes New Indoor Pickleball Club
Lieutenant Governor Advocates for $10 Million Pickleball Facility
Bossier City Introduces New Pickleball Facility at Louisiana Boardwalk
Bossier City Welcomes New Indoor Pickleball Facility
Economic Outlook for Shreveport-Bossier Highlights Job Growth and Risks
Bossier City, Louisiana: Business Closures Trigger Revitalization Plans
Additional Resources
- KSLA: What’s Next for Louisiana Boardwalk
- Shreveport Bossier Advocate: Bossier City Boardwalk Improvement Plan
- Bossier Press: The Picklr to Open at Louisiana Boardwalk
- Google Search: Louisiana Boardwalk revitalization
- Wikipedia: Louisiana Boardwalk
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.
