50 Cent’s $50M Plan to Turn Downtown Shreveport into an Entertainment Hub Wins City Approval
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Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson has secured Shreveport City Council approval to establish a new downtown entertainment district, with construction expected to begin as early as late 2025 or in the first quarter of 2026, according to local officials.
Representatives for Jackson say he will invest $50 million of personal funds in the project. Early work is underway, including upgrades to Millennium Studios and preparations at Stage Works Studio for upcoming productions.
“From what I see, there is very little risk for the city,” Councilman Grayson Boucher said during an administrative session. “We don’t have many multimillionaires knocking on the door to invest. Fifty is willing to put $50 million into Shreveport.”
Naming and cultural positioning
City leaders and residents also discussed naming the district the Sam Cooke Cultural Arts District, honoring the legendary singer who drew inspiration in Shreveport for “A Change Is Gonna Come.” Advocate Craig Lee called it “a branding opportunity the world would recognize,” noting the project could be the largest development in North Central Louisiana led by an African American.
Economic structure and safeguards
The proposal creates the Film and Entertainment Gateway Economic Development District, which would levy a 2% sales tax within its boundaries. Revenue would flow into a dedicated trust fund governed by a companion ordinance that outlines how the money can be used for redevelopment.
Amid broad support from local business owners, council members also raised concerns about protecting longtime downtown property holders. Boucher said the effort aims to **enhance—not displace—**existing businesses: “We’ll give the same support we’re trying to give 50 Cent. If local businesses want to knock on the door, we’ll help them any way we can.”
If timelines hold, Shreveport could see cranes and crews mobilize within months, with Jackson’s venture positioned to jump-start film, music, and hospitality activity in the city’s core.
