Tyler Comeaux
Caddo-Bossier Parishes Port Commission

A Port’s Growth and Essential Expansion To Accommodate Future Industrial Development

Since commencing operations in 1995, the Caddo-Bossier Parishes Port Commission (Port) has seen extensive economic development growth, occupying over 70% of its original 2000 acres of land. Due to this growth rate and lack of available space to accommodate additional large industries and Port tenants, the Port’s Board acted and approved the staff to conduct and implement a Port Expansion Study for future growth. The development of the study assisted the Port to acquire and develop highly suitable land for the attraction of business and industry to the next generation. The Port Board and Staff, along with the hired consultant, had to develop strategic goals for the Port and characteristics of the property that were to be targeted for purchase and future industrial development. Following the successful implementation of land acquisition as outlined in the Port Expansion Study, the Port developed a master plan for the recently purchased raw, greenfield land sites. This paper will lay out the steps taken throughout the Port’s expansion and master planning processes. It will also discuss the various obstacles that were encountered throughout the process of implementation.