Shreveport’s downtown riverfront is entering a new chapter for gaming, and this week, Cedric B. Glover, Executive Director of the Shreveport Downtown Development Authority (DDA), joined leaders and lawmakers to explore what that future could look like. Glover brought his unique perspective to the table as a pioneer in Shreveport’s casino era, having served as Vice Chairman of the City Council when the first casino opened in 1994.
The meeting, hosted by Christopher Hebert at Bally’s Shreveport Casino & Hotel, was requested by State Representatives Steven Jackson and Joy Walters to discuss Bally’s Corporation’s plans to acquire Sam’s Town Hotel & Casino, the first and oldest casino in the Shreveport-Bossier market.
Drawing on his experience shaping the city’s gaming era, Glover shared historical insight and emphasized the unique opportunity the community faces today. With Louisiana’s 2018 legislation allowing riverboat casinos to move onto land, and the potential of additional gaming licenses, downtown Shreveport has a chance to rethink how gaming and entertainment fit into the riverfront’s future.
“The downtown riverfront is an important part of our city’s landscape,” said Cedric B. Glover, “This is a unique opportunity to plan thoughtfully for its future, creating new possibilities for growth and community benefit.”
Bally’s expanded gaming capacity through ownership of two licenses provides added potential to attract investment and grow the market. The success of LIVE in Northwest Louisiana has demonstrated that land-based facilities can significantly expand local gaming markets, making Bally’s dual-license position especially compelling. Expanded capacity could not only attract more visitors and create new jobs, but also support surrounding areas, further energizing downtown Shreveport’s economic landscape.
The discussion highlighted the importance of thoughtful planning and collaboration when preparing for the next chapter of the gaming landscape. By combining historical perspective with a vision for the future, the group explored opportunities to balance economic growth, community impact, and the evolving needs of downtown Shreveport.
