By: The Shreveport Sun
January 5, 2024
Downtown Shreveport stands as a vibrant nucleus within our city, where the convergence of art, entertainment, business, and tourism gives rise to a rich cultural experience. My journey in this dynamic district spans nearly 14 years, beginning with our entry into the Slattery Building at the tender age of 20. It was there that my high school best friends and I founded “The Attic Studios,” delving into the realms of film and music, an era that marked the genesis of my profound love for downtown and its remarkable
community.
My professional trajectory also led me to the Chase Tower and Regions Tower, where I served as a young small business [owner] and personal banker.
In those early years, a seed of aspiration took root within me – a dream to become a property owner in a district where African-Americans, particularly the youth, were not commonplace as property owners.
However, downtown’s Achilles’ heel has long been its vacant, dilapidated, and underutilized buildings.
During my two-year tenure on the Downtown Development Authority, I tirelessly championed a vacancy ordinance, aiming to spur development and accelerate the revitalization of dormant structures. I believe property owners, without plans for redevelopment, need a motivational push to contribute to the growth and resurgence of downtown.
“Shreveport is undeniably special, and its people even more so.” - Drayden Dunn
In 2022, serendipity smiled upon me when I stumbled upon a property on Texas Street, a
prime location with a decade-long vacancy. It felt like fate had orchestrated the moment, as I envisioned the potential within this neglected building.
A space for creativity, art, and small business ownership had always been a dream of mine. The positive impact on our youth, witnessing a young entrepreneur from Shreveport’s Pines Road transforming failures into victories, and building a legacy for generations to come, is immeasurable.
With divine favor, I acquired the building and christened it “The Alexander Building” in memory of my late best friend, Brandon Alexander, a renowned film director whotragically passed in 2019.
Interestingly, the building previously housed a CPA named Alexander for four decades. Collaborating with my architect and neighbor, Kevin Bryan, we are envisioning a space that pays homage to history, incorporates vibrant aesthetics, and offers a glimpse into a bright future through the renovation process.
Shreveport is undeniably special, and its people even more so. The collective effort to build a better Shreveport, a better downtown, and a better community is a cause I am unwaveringly committed to. In this ongoing endeavor, I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the transformation and revitalization of Downtown Shreveport – a place that continues to inspire hope, creativity, and a sense of belonging for all its residents.
Editor’s Note: The opinions and perspectives presented by guest columnists are separate and distinct from the views and opinions of The Shreveport Sun. The Shreveport Sun offers a platform for public news and professional discourse, which is vital to the advancement of communities.