Bossier Mayor Spotlights Water Towers, Mardi Gras, and a New Fire Chief 

A familiar pain point got airtime as Bossier City mayor revisited Mardi Gras parade logistics. The stretch along Airline has been “a nightmare” for traffic control in the past, with tight frontage and limited parking. 

Bossier City Mayor Tommy Chandler told KEEL News he wouldn't be opposed to allowing Mardi Gras festivities along the Parkway corridor, where parking and post-event cleanup could be simpler. “There’s people have room to park and it’d be easier to clean up if we go that route,” Mayor Chandler said. 

Hotel Expansion Signals Fresh Bossier Investment 

Chandler pointed to new private investment tied to the Boardwalk district. “You’re looking at Marriot adding 50 more rooms and that’s another five million dollars,” he said. The added capacity comes as prospective entertainment partners kick the tires again.

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“Regal came in a few weeks ago and we’re talking about this boom that’s going to happen at the Boardwalk. There’s going to be some real good things happen with that also.” While specifics were limited, the mayor framed the visits as a positive sign for tourism, foot traffic, and restaurant growth. 

Bossier Water towers Get the Spotlight 

Bossier’s water towers have drawn praise lately, both for curb appeal and for the nods to Barksdale service members. The mayor credited a thorough wash and a high quality coating. “They used a real good sub paint for the paint to go over,” he said.

The spend was significant, he acknowledged, but preventative. “It wasn’t cheap to do, but it keeps the tanks from rusting out and that saves a lot of money down the road.” One tower along Airline near the Wine Gardens area earned special mention for its sharp finish and tribute design. 

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Bossier Fire chief Search on the Clock 

With Bossier City Fire Chief Brad Zagone preparing to retire after more than a decade of service, the mayor said interviews have been ongoing. The city has seen a strong applicant pool and is nearing a decision. “I have one more interview today,” Chandler noted. “I’m looking forward to getting a new chief.” On timing, he kept it simple. “Hopefully by the first of the year.” 

Why it Matters for Bossier 

Better parade logistics can reduce overtime costs and improve public safety. New hotel rooms can lengthen stays and lift sales tax collections citywide. Well maintained water infrastructure protects a critical asset. A smooth transition in fire leadership helps keep response times strong. “There’s going to be some real good things happen,” the mayor said. “People need people, and people are coming back.”