Florida Corridor Rolling RFEI

‍BATON ROUGE, LA (July 18, 2025) — Build Baton Rouge (BBR) and the Cortana Corridor Economic Development District (CCEDD) have released a rolling Request for Expressions of Interest (RFEI) to solicit early-stage development ideas for projects along the Florida Boulevard corridor. The RFEI encourages developers, investors, and nonprofit institutions to propose housing, commercial, or community-serving projects that advance the Florida Corridor Plan, a 2024 master plan for equitable redevelopment.

The Florida Corridor is experiencing significant momentum from public and private investment, including the 3.4 million-square-foot Amazon Fulfillment Center, new Rouses and Aldi grocery stores, MOVEBR enhancements, and planned BRT connections.

“Florida Boulevard has always been a backbone of Baton Rouge, and today it stands ready for a new chapter—one that connects communities and restores vibrancy to this vital corridor,” said Deidre D. Robert, CEO of Build Baton Rouge. “We want to collaborate with visionaries who see potential in every vacant lot, every corner store, and every block that deserves reinvestment.”

“The Florida Corridor Plan is one of the most ambitious and community-rooted strategies we’ve released in recent years,” said Rodney Braxton, Board Chair of Build Baton Rouge. “This RFEI signals that we’re not just planning—we’re acting. With momentum building from major anchors like Amazon, Rouses, and Aldi, now is the time to bring in partners who understand the stakes and the possibilities. This is about restoring Florida St. and Florida Boulevard’s role as a thriving economic and cultural corridor in Baton Rouge.”

“This RFEI is about opening the door to early, serious conversations with developers who are aligned with the Florida Corridor Plan,” said Marlee P. Miller, Chief Operating Officer of Build Baton Rouge. “We’re seeking partners with a track record of delivering housing, retail, and community-serving amenities, especially in disinvested areas, and who are ready to navigate the complexities of site control, funding, and compliance. The opportunity is real, and so is the urgency.”

BBR will evaluate submissions on a rolling basis and may invite selected respondents to advance to future steps, including site-specific RFPs or direct negotiation. The RFEI is designed to promote collaboration, transparency, and early alignment around shared redevelopment goals.

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