The pieces of the puzzle are falling into place as Big Lots has officially signed on to bring a 35,500 sq feet store to Natchitoches, which will be located in the River South Commons Shopping Center on South Drive.

This will be one of the largest Big Lots stores in the country. It will occupy the space between Goodwill and Affordable Home Furnishings. The plan is for the store to open on Sept. 8.

Big Lots is expected to bring between 30-40 full time jobs to the Natchitoches community.

A lease is already in the works with a second national tenant, which should also open in September. A third national tenant is expected to sign as well and will split the building, where Stage was located formerly, with the second tenant.

All of these leases are being signed for 10-years, which shows a long-term commitment to Natchitoches.

The Council approved this agenda item at its Feb. 28 meeting. It will create the River South Commons Economic Development District. This introduction is the first step in a multi-step process. The City will have to pass an ordinance to levy the tax and another to enter into a Cooperative Endeavor Agreement with the developers.

This includes plans for a new, more modern and updated shopping center. The additional tax will be paid by the developers and their tenants.

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