SHREVEPORT, La. – Caddo Parish commissioners are set to place a $60 million bond measure on the Nov. 3 ballot to fund a new multi‑use sports complex along the I‑20 corridor. The proposal, championed by the parish’s Sports Facilities Advisory team, promises a $20 million direct economic impact and self‑sufficiency by the third year of operation through event fees, rentals, food sales and other revenue streams.
Financial projections and past performance
The advisory firm, hired for $58,000, produced a pro forma that relies on historical data, industry experience and a network of operators. While the analysis projects strong spending at local hotels and restaurants, it does not disclose the underlying data sets used to generate those numbers.
Recent audits of comparable projects in Tennessee, North Carolina and Texas reveal a more cautious picture. In North Carolina’s Rocky Mount Event Center, operating expenses in year six exceeded budget by $1.8 million, even though the advisory’s projection called for profitability by year four. A 2022 market study credited the center with a $15 million direct economic impact, a figure the advisory later inflated to $25 million without independent verification.
In Tennessee, the Rocky Top Sports World complex in Gatlinburg reported a $76.3 million economic impact for fiscal year 2022‑2023, yet a state auditor’s report showed a $1.6 million loss in 2025, partially subsidized by $1.1 million from city and county governments.
Similarly, a Fort Bend County review of the Epicenter in Rosenberg, Texas, found the facility $569,000 behind its projected operating results after six months, despite an original break‑even target for the end of year three.
Local officials’ response
Commissioners emphasized that the Caddo project differs in scale and community need. “We are asking the public to make an informed decision about the money,” commission president Greg Young said, noting that the current rendering is only an artist’s conception and that final design details await voter approval.
Commissioner John Atkins requested a detailed debt‑service model from the parish administration, while Commissioner Roy Burrell raised concerns about the proposed expansion from 12.5 acres to 200 acres, urging caution until proper authorization is secured.
What voters need to know
The bond would cover the $70 million cost of the complex, with the remaining $10 million expected from “other funding” sources not yet identified. The advisory’s forecast projects the facility to become self‑sufficient by year three and generate $270,000 in profit by year five, with total revenue potentially reaching $4 million.
Community meetings are scheduled for Sept. 8 at Louisiana State University in Shreveport, Sept. 9 at Government Plaza, and Sept. 10 at Greenwood Acres Family Life Centre to give residents a chance to ask questions and voice concerns.
Balancing hope and caution
While the promise of increased tourism dollars and new recreational opportunities is appealing, past examples suggest that operating losses are common in large sports facilities, especially during the early years. Residents are encouraged to weigh the projected economic benefits against the risk of ongoing subsidies and the need for transparent financial oversight.
Ultimately, the decision will rest with Shreveport voters, who will determine whether the envisioned sports complex becomes a catalyst for local growth or another costly venture requiring continued public support.
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.
