BPPJ Approves Major Update to Subdivision Regulations, Launches Year-Long PUD Initiative

In a pivotal move to guide future development, the Bossier Parish Police Jury has approved the Bossier City-Parish Metropolitan Planning Commission’s (MPC) and Haughton’s MPC application to amend and update subdivision regulations within the Unified Development Code (UDC). This decision officially lifts the development moratorium that had been in place but introduces a new, year-long Planned Unit Development (PUD) moratorium.

The changes will directly impact development oversight in Bossier City, Haughton, and Benton, where the MPCs will now operate under the updated regulations and PUD guidelines.

The updates were discussed in detail during a meeting of the Police Jury’s Road/Subdivision Regulations Committee, chaired by District 3 Juror Philip Rodgers.

“We’ve been working closely with the MPC to ensure these updates reflect the needs of our growing communities,” Rodgers said during the committee meeting. He also added, “In relation to the PUD, we are going to have a discussion every 90 days, and we’re hoping to get the guidelines established where everyone benefits in a year.”

What is a PUD?

A Planned Unit Development is a zoning tool that allows for a mix of residential, commercial, and recreational uses within a single, master-planned community. Unlike traditional zoning, which separates land uses, PUDs promote integrated, walkable neighborhoods with shared amenities and green spaces.

Why It Matters?

The PUD model is considered a key strategy for managing Bossier Parish’s rapid growth, especially in areas such as North Bossier, Haughton, and Benton.

“We’ve got an issue with how fast we’re growing, and we need to look at it carefully,” Parish Attorney Patrick Jackson said. “This approach helps us balance development with infrastructure, traffic, and quality of life.”

Officials say the updated UDC regulations and possible future PUD

framework will:

• Encourage smart growth aligned with infrastructure and transportation planning.

• Encourage housing diversity to serve the needs of a growing population.

• Enhance community aesthetics and sustainability.

Streamline development by offering more flexibility to developers under a unified vision.

The Police Jury’s decision comes after months of review and public input, reflecting a broader commitment to strategic planning in one of Louisiana’s fastest-growing regions.

“This PUD initiative gives us the flexibility to plan smarter, not just faster,” Jackson said.

In other business:

Progress is being made on the repairs of two bridges in the parish

Parish Engineer Eric Hudson commented on the progress that is being made on two bridges in South Bossier Parish.

The jurors viewed the progress of the Caplis Sligo Road bridge and the Smith Road bridge via aerial footage.

Hudson said, “We thought the Caplis Sligo Road bridge would be completed by the end of August, just before the start of school, but they are telling me that the work has been going a bit slower than anticipated and that it looks like it will be done mid-October now.”

The Smith Road bridge, also in the video, is expected to be completed after the beginning of the year, Hudson said.

Tribute to Mr. Billy Don Slack

The Bossier Parish Police Jury honors the life of Mr. Billy Don Slack, a devoted public servant and beloved member of our community, who passed away on June 12, 2025, at age 66.

Billy Don dedicated 36 years to serving Bossier Parish, most notably as Animal Control Officer. He was known for his compassion, strong work ethic, and deep care for both people and animals.

We extend our deepest condolences to his family and friends and honor his legacy of service, humility, and love for Bossier Parish.