The Bossier Parish Police Jury voted unanimously this week to recommend four census tracts for inclusion in the upcoming federal Opportunity Zones 2.0 program.
The proposed locations include an area in Haughton near Highway 157 and U.S. Highway 80, the East Bank District, the Cyber Innovation Center region and the Shreveport Downtown Airport area.
The nominations will now be submitted to the State of Louisiana, which will review applications 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 developers and investors. Officials say the program aims to stimulate redevelopment, business growth and long-term economic activity in communities that may have struggled to attract investment.
Tom Salzer said the effort is intended to position Bossier Parish for future growth and investment opportunities.
Officials noted that successful Opportunity Zone designations could lead to increased property values, higher property and sales tax revenues and additional economic development without increasing taxes on residents. If approved, the designations could remain in place for up to 10 years.
In other business, the Police Jury approved Certificates of Substantial Completion for two major sewer infrastructure projects, including the wastewater collection system at the Winfield Road Lift Station and repairs to CSR and headworks structures at the parish sewer treatment plant.
Parish leaders said the projects are part of ongoing efforts to improve wastewater system reliability, support future growth and strengthen environmental protections throughout the parish.
The jury also adopted a proclamation declaring May 2026 as National Tennis Month in Bossier Parish. The proclamation supports a nationwide initiative led by the United States Tennis Association to promote tennis participation and expand access to the sport for players of all ages and abilities.
Local UTA representative Rhonda Rueben was recognized during the proclamation.