The Natchitoches Historic District Development Commission met on August 21, at 10 a.m. for its full commission meeting, covering financial updates and reports from partner organizations.
The commission approved minutes from the July 24 meeting and reviewed the July 31 financial statement, which showed a balance of $139,665.26 and $1,200 in expenses for the month. A motion to approve the financial statement passed unanimously.
Commission member Van Erikson reported on Northwestern State University, noting that the fall semester began August 18 with what is expected to be the largest freshman class in several years.
Housing is at capacity with a waiting list, and transfer enrollment is strong. Upcoming athletic events include the first home football game on August 28. He also highlighted the opening of Alost Hall, a $46 million facility already in use for classes, as well as renovations to Iberville Cafeteria. Community partnerships through “Proud to Be Purple” and “Demon Deals” campaigns were also recognized. A tour of Alost Hall was scheduled for later in the week.
Reports from other organizations included:
Historic District Business Association: A record number of entries are expected for the upcoming Car Show. The weekend will also coincide with homecoming activities for both Natchitoches Central High School and NSU.
Tourist Commission: Marketing efforts for the Christmas season are being combined with the Christmas Festival Committee and Convention and Visitors Bureau. A redesigned website now features itineraries and activities for NSU students.
Cane River National Heritage Area: Riverbank stabilization projects are nearing completion. Landscaping in the Mill District is awaiting DOTD permits, while downtown utilities are preparing new connections to support Christmas Festival displays.
Natchitoches Historic Foundation: The board will meet August 24, and Christmas Tour of Homes ticket sales have already reached 194. Social media promotions for the event are underway.
Association for the Preservation of Historic Natchitoches: A White Linen Night membership drive will take place August 21. The Fall Tour of Homes is scheduled for October 10–11, including candlelight and town tours. Upcoming festivals include Zydeco in early September, the Meat Pie Festival in mid-September, the Car Show in October, and Tapped Tober later that month.
Chamber of Commerce: Recent events included the Chamber Breakfast Club with NSU Athletics. Upcoming workforce events are scheduled for August 29 in Campti and September 5 in Natchez. Leadership Natchitoches applications open October 1, and other events on the calendar include the Imagine More Yoga Studio ribbon cutting on October 3, Thrive Gala on December 11, and the Best of Natchitoches in November.
Natchitoches Events Center: Staff introduced Branden Burton, a key member of operations. Events include the NSU Athletic Scholarship Auction, upcoming weddings, and the Bigfoot Convention September 5–6, which is expected to draw 3,000 attendees.
City of Natchitoches: An open house for the Teen Center will be held August 25. National Night Out is scheduled for October 7, and the 2025 Christmas Festival poster announcement is forthcoming.
Community Updates: The Demon Diamond and Devotion Breakfast will take place September 20 at Prather Coliseum, and the Kiwanis Pancake Breakfast and 5K Color Run are also set for September 20 at the Collins Pavilion.
The commission also heard updates on the riverbank project, including new broadband equipment installation by Pelican Broadband to support internet needs during large festivals.