Stacey Tinsley, Bossier Press-Tribune
The Louisiana Boardwalk is moving forward with a long-term redevelopment plan aimed at expanding the Bossier City riverfront destination with new dining, entertainment, retail and recreational opportunities.
Boardwalk officials and members of the property’s management team held a press conference Monday, Aug. 31, to share details about investments already made at the property and plans for additional development.
Abigail Simmons, business development manager for KSM Marketing, said the redevelopment is being approached as a long-term investment designed to create a mix of daytime and nighttime activities.
The Boardwalk currently has 23 retail tenants and seven commercial tenants, with three additional Letters of Intent pending for space. Officials said the names of those potential tenants are not yet being released.
Justin Hagler, pastor of The Simple Church, which is located at the Boardwalk, said approximately $13.5 million has been invested by tenants and other partners during the past two years.
That investment includes $5 million from the adjacent Marriott hotel, $5 million from The Simple Church and $3.5 million connected to The Picklr indoor pickleball facility and The Brine restaurant.
An additional $3.5 million in city and private investment has gone toward infrastructure improvements, painting, signage, landscaping and other work throughout the property.
One of the largest additions announced during the press conference involves Louisiana Grandstand, which plans to establish a new music and entertainment presence at the Boardwalk.
The first phase of that development will be The Parish Standard, a 220-seat restaurant, bar and live music venue planned for the former Joe’s Crab Shack location. The venue is expected to open in November and will feature Louisiana-inspired food, cocktails and intimate live music.
Plans also call for a larger 2,700-seat performance venue, which is expected to open in 2027. A Louisiana Legends Museum is also part of the long-term vision.
John O’Shaughnessy, part of the Boardwalk management group, said the redevelopment plans are the result of more than a year of planning, research and collaboration.
Boardwalk officials said the goal is to create a connected destination that offers experiences for families during the day as well as dining and entertainment options in the evening.
The redevelopment is expected to bring additional businesses, entertainment and investment to the Louisiana Boardwalk as work continues on the property.
Officials emphasized that the transformation will take time and will involve continued investment and development across the riverfront property.