BENTON, La. — The Bossier Parish Police Jury voted unanimously this week to recommend four census tracts for inclusion in the proposed federal Opportunity Zones 2.0 program, a move local officials said could help attract long-term private investment and economic development.
The nominated areas include a site in Haughton near Louisiana Highway 157 and U.S. Highway 80, the East Bank District, the Cyber Innovation Center region and Shreveport Downtown Airport.
The nominations will be submitted to the State of Louisiana, which will evaluate proposals from across the state before forwarding final selections to the federal government.
Opportunity Zones are designed to encourage private investment in economically targeted areas through tax incentives for qualifying development and redevelopment projects.
Police Jury President Tom Salzer said the parish is seeking to position itself for future growth opportunities.
“This is about being proactive and making sure Bossier Parish is in position to compete,” Salzer said. “By putting these areas forward, we’re opening the door for new investment, new development, and long-term growth that benefits our entire parish.”
Parish officials said potential benefits from future development could include increased property values, higher property tax collections and additional sales tax revenue generated by new businesses. If approved at the state and federal levels, the Opportunity Zone designations could remain in place for up to 10 years.
In separate action, the Police Jury approved two Certificates of Substantial Completion for sewer infrastructure projects involving the Winfield Road Lift Station wastewater collection system and repairs to CSR and headworks structures at the parish sewer treatment plant.
Officials said the projects are intended to improve wastewater system reliability, support future growth and strengthen environmental and public health protections.
The Police Jury said continued investment in sewer infrastructure remains a priority as the parish expands services for residents and businesses.
The Jury also adopted a proclamation declaring May 2026 as National Tennis Month in Bossier Parish. The measure aligns with a nationwide initiative by the United States Tennis Association to promote participation in tennis and expand access to the sport for players of all ages and skill levels.