News Summary
Bossier City is grappling with increasing business closures at the Louisiana Boardwalk, leading to concerns over its economic viability. Mayor Tommy Chandler is taking action to engage with local business owners and attract new investments, as the area experiences a decline in tenant numbers. Notable recent departures include Sweet Caroline’s Dueling Piano Bar and Joe’s Crab Shack. With crime concerns and dwindling retail options, city officials are determined to work with the new property owner to revitalize this crucial commercial area for Bossier City’s economy.
Bossier City is facing a wave of business closures at the Louisiana Boardwalk, prompting local authorities, led by Mayor Tommy Chandler, to take immediate action to address concerns over the area’s economic viability. The recent shuttering of multiple establishments, including Sweet Caroline’s Dueling Piano Bar and Joe’s Crab Shack, has raised alarms about the future of this popular shopping and dining destination.
Mayor Chandler has actively engaged with the owners and managers of the Boardwalk, expressing his commitment to revitalize the area and attract new businesses. He remains focused on enhancing local business conditions, emphasizing the importance of a thriving commercial landscape for the city’s economy. His administration recognizes the urgency of maintaining a ‘business-friendly’ environment as the Boardwalk continues to experience declining tenant participation.
Among the most notable closures, Sweet Caroline’s Dueling Piano Bar ceased operations shortly after a year, and Joe’s Crab Shack, a longstanding tenant since the Boardwalk’s inception, closed its doors on May 31. The consistent decline has left only two remaining restaurants in operation—Sushiko Sushi and Grill and Saltgrass Steakhouse—although concerns linger about the future of Saltgrass. Recent reports indicate that retail options are diminishing, particularly with the closure of Dollar Tree, which has contributed to diminishing consumer choices.
A document circulated among city officials suggests that several remaining shops are now on month-to-month leases, indicating instability and uncertainty in business continuity. The general manager and commercial group of the Boardwalk have highlighted the necessity of city officials meeting with Todd Routh of Routh Properties, the new owner who purchased the Boardwalk for $30.5 million in August 2022, to discuss future plans for the property. The absence of city involvement during the sale negotiations has compounded the challenge of addressing the area’s economic prospects.
Mayor Chandler has voiced frustration over the lack of communication and meeting arrangements with Routh, stressing that the city has invested significantly in infrastructure surrounding the Boardwalk with the expectation that increased sales tax revenues would help reduce financial burdens. Instead, the current situation, he asserts, has become embarrassing for visitors, particularly in light of the area’s diminishing attractions.
The emergence of crime concerns has further complicated the situation, with reports of break-ins involving Bossier Sheriff patrol units parked at the Boardwalk. This has raised safety issues for both visitors and remaining businesses, adding to the urgency for city officials to address these matters swiftly.
In light of these developments, Bossier City officials are determined to engage proactively with Routh Properties to outline intentions for the Boardwalk’s future. They are open to providing permits or zoning assistance should retail opportunities pivot, aiming to revitalize the area and draw new business interest before the situation worsens.
The Boardwalk’s overall status is crucial for Bossier City’s economic health, with recent struggles serving as a stark reminder of the challenges facing local commerce. The outcome of these discussions and any future changes to the Boardwalk could significantly impact both the local economy and community identity.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- KTBS: Two More Businesses Close at Louisiana Boardwalk
- Shreveport-Bossier Advocate: Bossier City Boardwalk Plan to Improve
- Shreveport-Bossier Advocate: Louisiana Boardwalk Update
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Louisiana
- 710 KEEL: Hope for Boardwalk’s Future
- Google Search: Bossier City Boardwalk
