Could Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson Lease the Red River District?

SHREVEPORT, LA

New Downtown Development Authority Director Cedric Glover was recently talking to KEEL News about his vision for the future of downtown Shreveport, when he mentioned, almost off-handedly, that Curtis Jackson was interested in leasing the Red River Entertainment District.

Over the past several months, Jackson has made a substantial investment in downtown Shreveport, purchasing several buildings and property.  You can read more about all the properties Jackson has purchased HERE.

When asked if there are plans for Curtis Jackson to lease the Red River Entertainment District, Shreveport Mayor Tom Arceneaux told KEEL News on Wednesday that discussions have taken place between Jackson, his people and city officials.  But Mayor Arceneaux clarified that the discussions "were extremely preliminary", not even a "cocktail napkin drawing," nothing official has been discussed or decided.

After hearing Glover discuss Jackson's discussions about the Rred River District, Louisiana State Senator Sam Jenkins released the following statement:

I applauded the relationship that the city is forming with Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson, but due care should be given with obligating city assets such as the Red River District. It may not be prudent to tie up the vast majority of city assets with any one investor.

Time and opportunity should be allowed to determine if other local and national investors have proposals that may require use of property controlled by the city. The DDA Board is not an elected body that is answerable to the citizens.

Thus, I urge the Mayor and City Council to make wise decisions with regard to obligating these assets. Their decisions will have long term consequences.

-Senator Sam Jenkins District 39.