ALEXANDRIA, La. (WNTZ) – Louisiana Central has kicked off a regional initiative to shape Central Louisiana’s economic future, inviting public input as it develops a new three-year strategic plan.

The effort, announced earlier this month by Louisiana Central President and CEO Chris Masingill, will cover 10 parishes: Allen, Avoyelles, Catahoula, Concordia, Grant, LaSalle, Natchitoches, Rapides, Vernon and Winn. The regional plan will serve as a roadmap for investment and economic development, building on Louisiana Economic Development’s Positioning Louisiana to Win, a statewide strategy released in March.

“Our state is entering a new chapter for economic growth, and Central Louisiana is ready to capitalize on this momentum,” Masingill said. “Now is the time for action and investment in our region and our people as we work together to elevate our regional economy.”

Over the next 100 days, Louisiana Central staff will host parish-level listening sessions and launch its “We Make Good Stuff” 10-Parish Economic Development Roadshow to meet with business leaders, community stakeholders and residents. Feedback gathered will inform the organization’s strategic priorities for job creation, workforce development and business investment.

The group is also conducting a regional survey to gather perspectives on the area’s economic opportunities and challenges. Results, along with data and research, will guide the drafting of the new plan, which is expected to be completed by the end of 2025 and launched in early 2026.

“This is an opportunity for us to hear directly from leaders who have their finger on the pulse of these local communities,” Masingill said. “We want this plan to reflect the true spirit, scale and opportunity of Central Louisiana.”

Louisiana Central serves as the regional economic development organization for Central Louisiana, connecting businesses, educational institutions and community leaders to support growth and attract new investment.