Shreveport Board Approves G-Dome Variances for 50 Cent Project
Shreveport’s Zoning Board of Appeals gave the green light for key zoning variances tied to the proposed G-Dome, a G-Unit Studios project linked to rapper and entrepreneur Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson.
The vote happened during the board’s public hearing on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, and it clears two hurdles that matter for the dome’s size and placement in the downtown entertainment district.
What the Shreveport ZBA Approved
The case was presented as a request for variances to building height and setback requirements. Architect Kevin Brown, listed on the agenda for the request, told the board the plan is for a “uniquely shaped world class entertainment structure” designed for concerts and events, plus broader community uses.
READ MORE: Zoning Board to Review G-Dome Variances
The board later moved to approve the application, with a motion made by Mr. Gibson and seconded by Dr. Brandon. The chair called the vote unanimous.
The Height Variance: 160 feet vs. an 80-Foot Limit
The biggest headline is the height. The applicants told the board the area has an 80-foot height restriction, while the dome is expected to top out around twice that.
One board exchange put it plainly:
- “We’re going to be approximately 160 ft tall.”
- “And that would be an 80 ft variance.”
- “The variance is in request of building higher than the 80 foot restriction.”
Supporters also argued the dome’s height fits the context of nearby downtown and riverfront buildings, even if it goes beyond the newer 80-foot cap.
The Setback Issue: a Sphere Does Not Love Straight Lines
The second variance centers on setbacks and the “build to lot line” requirement. The applicants said a spherical building does not cooperate with a straight property line the way a typical box-shaped structure would.
Brown explained it this way: “Building it to a straight property line does not exactly work,” which is why the variance was requested.
Supporters Push Tourism, Film, and Downtown Momentum
- Orville Hall, introduced as a G-Unit growth advisor, framed the project as “a deliberate economic development idea.”
- Cedric Glover, executive director of the Downtown Development Authority, spoke in support and tied the concept to rebuilding a broader film and events ecosystem downtown.
- Shreveport City Council chairwoman Tabitha Taylor also urged approval and pointed to a commissioned study projecting major long-term economic benefits.
Parking came up too, with discussion about existing downtown walkability and access from I-220 into the core.
What's Next for the Downtown Project
With the variances approved, the project can move forward through the remaining permitting and development steps that depend on those zoning allowances.
Downtown Shreveport Properties Bought By Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson
Gallery Credit: Twin Blends Photography and Erin McCarty