Shreveport, Louisiana, September 10, 2025
News Summary
The North Louisiana Economic Partnership (NLEP) has acquired the former Libbey Glass manufacturing plant in Shreveport, which has been inactive since 2020. This pivotal acquisition is expected to pave the way for new job opportunities and economic growth by transforming the 54-acre site into a marketable asset. NLEP aims to bring at least 200 jobs to the area and plans for the demolition of the aging infrastructure by 2026. The initiative signifies collaborative efforts among local stakeholders to rejuvenate the community.
Shreveport, Louisiana
The North Louisiana Economic Partnership (NLEP) has successfully acquired the former Libbey Glass manufacturing plant located in Shreveport, a site that has stood dormant since its closure in 2020. This acquisition represents a vital step towards revitalizing the local economy and contributing to the creation of new job opportunities in the area.
The Libbey Glass plant operated for over fifty years before ceasing operations due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. NLEP’s President and CEO, Justyn Dixon, has emphasized the necessity of transforming the site to enhance both the community’s visual appeal and economic prospects.
Through this initiative, NLEP aims to bring at least 200 jobs to Shreveport, which it considers essential to ongoing community development. Plans involve a thorough clean-up of the 54-acre site, leveraging its potential as a marketable asset to attract businesses that can provide well-paying jobs.
Acquisition Details
The acquisition has officially been completed, with NLEP recognized as the new owner of the century-old plant located at 4302 Jewella Ave. This venture has been in progress for nearly two years, backed by a financial plan involving a total of $6.8 million from state funding, $10 million dedicated by the state, along with over $1 million from the Northwest Louisiana Finance Authority (NLFA).
The site, which consists of 850,000 square feet of warehouses, offices, and manufacturing space, is recognized for its significant industrial zoning and robust infrastructure, which includes access to water, natural gas, electricity, and a rail spur. These features make the property a prime candidate for future manufacturing operations.
Future Plans
NLEP intends to initiate a Request for Information (RFI) shortly to select a demolition company, with the prospect of commencing demolition work by early 2026. This decision will involve evaluating the necessary improvements needed to convert the aging infrastructure into a functional space conducive to attracting new tenants.
NLFA chairwoman Marian Claville-Burks highlighted that this investment is aimed at rejuvenating a critical part of the Shreveport area. The acquisition also signifies collaboration among various state and regional stakeholders, with significant input from Senator Thomas Pressly, who played a crucial role in securing state support for the project.
Community Impact
This initiative is designed to convert the former Libbey Glass facility from an eyesore into an appealing asset for future investors. As NLEP progresses in its planning and operational stages, they are fielding inquiries while assessing the next steps to achieve their objectives regarding redevelopment.
FAQs
What is the Libbey Glass plant?
The Libbey Glass plant was a manufacturing facility in Shreveport that operated for over fifty years before closing in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
What plans does NLEP have for the site?
NLEP plans to clean up the 54-acre site, attract businesses to create at least 200 jobs, and potentially engage in demolition and redevelopment activities.
How was the acquisition financed?
The acquisition was financed through $6.8 million from state funding, $10 million from state contributions, and over $1 million from the Northwest Louisiana Finance Authority.
What is the timeline for redevelopment?
NLEP plans to start demolition work potentially as early as 2026, following their selection process for a demolition company.
Why is this acquisition important for the community?
This acquisition is essential for revitalizing the area, improving the local economy, and providing job opportunities, which are critical for the community’s development.
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Additional Resources
- KTAL News
- Shreveport Bossier Advocate
- KSLA News
- Wikipedia: Louisiana
- Google Search: Libbey Glass plant Shreveport
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.
