50 Cent Acquires Former Downtown Shreveport Office Supply Building
Rapper Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson has added another historic property to his real estate portfolio in downtown Shreveport. He has acquired the M.L. Bath Building, located at 610 Market Street, for $310,000. This purchase is part of a significant investment in the area, totaling over $4.6 million across multiple properties.
Details of the Acquisition
The M.L. Bath Building is 104 years old and has been vacant for several years. This acquisition follows a recent proposal that involves $50 million in state funding aimed at renovating city-owned properties, including various G-Unit facilities.
Recent Property Purchases
- 218 Texas St. – Purchased for $275,000 in May 2024
- 205 Texas St. – Purchased for $345,000 in May 2024
- 611 Texas St. – Purchased for $250,000 in June 2024
- 401 Spring St. – Purchased for $150,000 in June 2024
- 510 Commerce St. – Purchased for $1.1 million in December 2024
- 624-626 Commerce St. – Purchased for $388,000 in December 2024
- 630 Commerce St. – Purchased for $250,000 in December 2024
- 500 Block of Spring St. (Vacant lot) – Purchased for $286,250 in June 2024
- Entire city block for G-Dome – Purchased for $1,096,872 in June 2024
- Parking lot at Spring and Caddo streets – Purchased for $200,000 in May 2025
Plans for the Properties
The G-Unit portfolio focuses on various properties designed to enhance the downtown experience. Among the plans are the conversion of several locations into clubs and restaurant spaces that align with the vibrant nightlife of the Downtown Entertainment District.
Proposals submitted to the Shreveport Historic Preservation Commission showcase ambitious plans for the Commerce Street buildings, indicating a commitment to revitalizing the downtown area.
According to real estate agent Trent Siskron, restoring historic properties is challenging but rewarding. Jackson’s acquisition of the M.L. Bath Building, which has suffered from vandalism and neglect, comes with high rehabilitation costs. However, benefits such as historic tax credits could alleviate some financial burdens.
Impact of the Development
All purchased properties, except the M.L. Bath Building, fall within the newly established Film & Entertainment Gateway Economic Development District. An additional 2% sales and use tax, along with a hotel occupancy tax, will be implemented to fund redevelopment efforts that complement G-Unit Studios, G-Stage, and the proposed G-Dome.
The city has proposed measures to oversee funds and support the ongoing development in the district, although details regarding board members for the economic development corporation remain undisclosed.
With this strategic investment in downtown Shreveport, 50 Cent aims to transform the area while simultaneously promoting entertainment and economic growth.
