Jefferson Parish Economic Activity on the Rise

It’s been a busy summer for Jefferson Parish. From the Elmwood Shopping Center in Harahan to the Veterans commercial corridor in Metairie, new businesses are popping up all over the parish. Most recently, the Jefferson Parish Economic Development Commission (JEDCO) has seen an influx of national and local restaurants and retailers to the area.

The Elmwood Shopping Center is about to complete a 65,000 square- foot expansion. Residents can expect to find national favorites, like Chipotle Mexican Grill and Five Guys Burgers and Fries, among the list of newcomers. There will also be one section of the plaza dedicated to women’s retail, including Ulta Cosmetics and DSW (Designer Shoes Warehouse.)

Veteran’s Memorial Boulevard is experiencing a similar boom in business expansion. Panera Bread, Pei Wei Asian Diner, Red Mango Yogurt and Smoothies, and Bone Fish Grill share a strong customer base near the 4800 block of Veterans. Coyote Blues, a Mexican restaurant, is set to open in the area in October.

Buffalo Wild Wings is building a restaurant at the corner of Severn and Veterans. H.H. Greg Appliances and Electronics will take the place of an abandoned Wal-Mart at the 8000 block of Veterans. The old Borders Bookstore is being remodeled into a retail center. Mellow Mushroom, a pizza restaurant, has plans to open there once the renovations are complete.

“We’re experiencing a record high in terms of economic development activity right now,” says JEDCO Executive Director Lucien Gunter. “Jefferson Parish is, once again, proving itself as a popular location for retailers and restaurants, and we are pleased to play a role in attracting some of those interested companies to the region.”

“We are thrilled to welcome several new restaurants and businesses on both the East Bank and West Bank of Jefferson Parish,” says Parish President John Young. “We continue to work hard to grow and improve the business climate and the quality of life here, positioning Jefferson as the most progressive parish in the state of Louisiana.”

“This is an exciting time for Jefferson Parish,” says Jefferson Parish Council Chairman Elton Lagasse. “The investment made by these new businesses indicates a strong economic climate, and I am optimistic that we will continue to see great successes in this region.”

It’s not just retailers that have taken an interest in Jefferson Parish. A long list of businesses, from medical supply and chemical companies to businesses who serve healthy lunches to students have opened in the metro area over the summer, bringing new jobs and new opportunities with them.