“I chose Keith to serve at the city’s first chief technology officer because he is uniquely qualified,” Perkins said. “His technological expertise coupled with his business background enables him to cut costs while bringing Shreveport into the 21st century.

“For the longest time, people kept hearing that we’re opening, and it had to be delayed because the construction needs to be done properly,” Fulfer said. “Finally, we have a real move-in date. Some people jumped on it immediately the day it was available.

The building already is home to Red River Brewing, Fat Calf Boucherie, Smith Family Farms, Colonial Life Insurance and the Communications Workers of America. Owner Ronnie Remedies said more space is available for rent in the 50,000-squarefoot building.

But Lofts at 624 Texas is more than an apartment building. It is a mixed-use facility. In addition to the 47 residential spaces on the third through seventh floors, the building has several commercial tenants as well. The second floor features office space, and the first floor features retail space, including Rhino Coffee and Seasons Salon and Events.

The Bayou Grande project will include 312 one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments, along with 5,000 square feet of retail space within walking distance of downtown at the corner of Caddo and Common streets. The development will include mixed-income, workforce housing at market rates.