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Shreveport Common organizers outline redevelopment progress, ask council and public to support fundraising campaign
Summary
Shreveport Common representatives updated the council on a multi-block downtown revitalization effort that they say has attracted $81 million in investment; organizers described completed and pipeline projects and promoted a fundraiser that will include a public 'go over the edge' rappel event to benefit local nonprofits.
Representatives of the Shreveport Common redevelopment project gave the City Council a progress update on Sept. 9, saying partners and property owners have combined to invest about $81 million in a nine-block area of historic downtown and announcing a high-profile fundraiser to support small-business activation and technical-assistance programs.
Wendy Biscottir, speaking for Shreveport Common, said 36 projects are complete in the district, three are under construction, 17 are active in predevelopment and six are for sale. She said residential occupancy in the area is strong—about 97% occupancy in a market study cited—and that the district focuses on preserving authenticity and avoiding gentrification while encouraging affordable commercial and mixed-rate spaces.
The Shreveport Common program is partnering with the Shreveport Regional Arts Council, the Fuller Center and several incubator organizations to offer an incubator kitchen, technical assistance and startup grants. Biscottir said property owners will offer at least two months free rent to eligible businesses that emerge from those programs.
To raise funds, organizers announced a fundraiser that will include a rappelling event from the 15-story Fairmont Tower. The mayor and other community leaders have committed to participate and to raise sponsorships; proceeds will be split among participating nonprofits supporting Shreveport Common initiatives. Biscottir asked council members and the public to participate and to support the event’s VIP reception and block party.
Council members praised the stakeholder-driven approach and noted the need for additional resources to convert historic commercial spaces to viable small-business locations. The council did not vote on funding for Shreveport Common at the meeting; organizers said they are seeking private donations, grants and partner support.
