Boot Barn to Open New Store in Harvey, Expanding Its Louisiana Presence

Western wear retailer Boot Barn is saddling up for its next big move — this time to the New Orleans area. The company announced plans to open a brand-new 20,000-square-foot location this June at 1600 Westbank Expressway in Harvey, bringing its signature blend of western style and rugged workwear to more Louisiana shoppers.

Founded in 1978, Boot Barn began as a go-to destination for classic western essentials like cowboy hats, boots, and belt buckles. Over the years, it has evolved into a much broader retailer, offering everything from outdoor and work apparel to women’s fashion, accessories, and rustic home decor. Despite that expansion, the brand has stayed true to its roots, maintaining its identity as a hub for those who live and work in western and rural communities.

With more than 460 stores nationwide and 56 new openings last year alone, Boot Barn has grown into the largest western and work wear retailer in the country. The Harvey store will mark its ninth location in Louisiana, joining existing stores in Alexandria, Baton Rouge, Houma, Lafayette, Lake Charles, Monroe, Shreveport, and Slidell.

For shoppers in the greater New Orleans area, the arrival of Boot Barn brings a new option for durable, stylish gear that blends function and flair — just in time for summer.

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Spring Brings Hope for Buyers Amid a Shifting Housing Market

The spring homebuying season is shaping up to be more promising than what buyers have experienced over the last few years. With a growing number of homes on the market, slowing price increases, and mortgage rates that are trending downward — or at least stabilizing — the conditions are becoming more favorable for those ready and able to purchase.

Home prices have been rising at a slower pace compared to previous years, and in some areas, they’ve even started to come down. According to Realtor.com, the national median listing price in March held steady at $424,900, unchanged from the same time last year. In fact, in 32 of the country’s 50 largest metro areas, median listing prices were lower than they were a year ago. While the changes aren’t dramatic enough to fully ease affordability concerns, they do offer some breathing room to buyers who have been sidelined by the intense price increases of the past five years.

Mortgage rates, which have been a major barrier to affordability, remain elevated but are more manageable than they were just a few months ago. The average 30-year fixed rate dropped to 6.6 percent in April, down from over 7 percent earlier in the year. This slight but steady decline gives buyers a bit more room in their monthly budgets and the potential to qualify for better loan terms. If the broader economic outlook continues to weaken — partly due to new tariffs and global market instability — there’s a chance rates could fall even further, giving buyers a much-needed boost in purchasing power.

Perhaps the most noticeable change this spring is the increase in available homes. Active listings jumped 28.5 percent nationwide compared to last year, a sign that more sellers are entering the market and homes are staying available longer. As competition eases, buyers are finding more opportunities to negotiate. Sellers who might have expected bidding wars just a year or two ago are now more likely to offer concessions such as covering closing costs, accepting inspection contingencies, or even helping buyers temporarily lower their interest rates.

These changes don’t necessarily mean it’s a full-blown buyer’s market, but the balance between buyers and sellers is more even than it’s been in a long time. Buyers who are financially prepared are in a stronger position to shop without the same level of pressure that has defined recent years. Many are also taking advantage of temporary rate buydowns or planning to refinance down the road if rates drop more significantly.

However, affordability remains a serious challenge for many. Home prices have climbed nearly 50 percent in the past five years, and even with recent stabilization, they remain high relative to income. A household earning the median U.S. income would still need to spend nearly half of their annual earnings to cover the cost of a median-priced home — a share that is far above what the government considers affordable.

Still, the tide appears to be turning. For buyers with solid finances, this spring could be the best opportunity in recent memory to secure a home at a more reasonable price, with more options, and with less competition. Whether this moment leads to lasting change in the housing market depends on where mortgage rates go from here, but for now, home shoppers can feel a little more hopeful heading into the season.

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How to Prepare for the Capital Gains Tax Hit

In today’s real estate market, many homeowners are enjoying significant profits when selling their homes—but with those gains can come an unexpected and sometimes hefty tax bill. The capital gains tax, which applies when a property is sold for more than its adjusted cost basis, is increasingly affecting sellers, especially in high-priced markets where home values have soared over the past decade.

The root of the issue lies in the capital gains exclusion limits set by federal tax law. Single homeowners can exclude up to $250,000 in profit from the sale of their primary residence, while married couples filing jointly can exclude up to $500,000. But those limits haven’t been adjusted since they were first introduced in 1997. At the time, those exclusion amounts were more than adequate for most homeowners. Today, with inflation and rising property values, many sellers are surpassing those thresholds and facing taxes on the excess profit.

To avoid paying capital gains tax, homeowners must meet specific requirements: they must have owned and lived in the home for at least two of the last five years. These tests determine eligibility for the exclusion. If a homeowner fails to meet either of these requirements, they might want to consider postponing the sale until they qualify. On the other hand, homeowners who’ve rented out their property for a time before selling might find themselves partially or entirely disqualified from the exclusion due to the property’s changed status as a rental.

Understanding the role of cost basis is also critical in managing potential tax liability. A home’s cost basis begins with the purchase price, but it doesn’t remain static. Improvements made to the home—such as renovations, additions, or restorations after damage—can raise the cost basis, ultimately reducing the taxable gain when the home is sold. On the flip side, factors like depreciation during rental periods, insurance payouts, or energy efficiency credits can reduce the cost basis. Keeping detailed records of any upgrades, repairs, or legal fees tied to the property is key to accurately determining the adjusted basis and minimizing your tax burden.

If a sale has already occurred and capital gains exceed the exclusion amount, there are limited options available after the fact. Homeowners in that situation may be able to offset the gain with realized capital losses from the same tax year, though that scenario is less common. For those planning ahead and considering a sale in 2025, however, there are several proactive strategies that could help lower or offset a potential tax bill.

One approach is tax-loss harvesting, which involves selling investments at a loss to reduce taxable capital gains from other transactions, including real estate sales. This tactic can be particularly useful for those with taxable investment accounts who keep a close eye on their portfolios throughout the year. Contributing to a traditional IRA can also reduce taxable income if the contribution is deductible, and the same applies to eligible contributions made to a health savings account (HSA) for those enrolled in high-deductible health plans.

Charitable giving is another potential strategy. Donating cash or appreciated assets to a qualified charity can yield a tax deduction that helps offset gains. These donations must follow IRS rules, and the deductibility depends on the taxpayer’s income and the type of organization receiving the gift. Unused charitable deductions can generally be carried forward for up to five years.

In addition to these tactics, sellers should be aware of several tax law changes taking effect in 2025. Contribution limits to retirement and savings accounts have increased, including the Qualified Charitable Distribution cap, now set at $108,000 for IRA holders aged 70½ and up. Limits for 401(k), 403(b), and Roth 401(k) plans are now $23,500, with an extra $7,500 allowed for those age 50 and older. Health savings account contribution limits have also been bumped up, and the standard deduction has risen to $30,000 for married couples and $15,400 for single filers.

These higher thresholds could provide more opportunities to shelter income and reduce overall tax exposure. Additionally, legislative efforts are underway to raise the capital gains exclusion limits. The More Homes on the Market Act, which is expected to be reintroduced in Congress, would double the exclusion and tie it to inflation in the future. Whether the bill gains traction remains uncertain, but the conversation highlights growing concern over outdated limits.

If you’ve seen your home value increase significantly and are thinking about selling in the near future, don’t wait to plan. Calculate your potential capital gains, evaluate your adjusted cost basis, and explore tax-saving strategies before the sale. Depending on your situation, it may be worth bringing in a tax advisor who can help you navigate the process and potentially save you thousands in taxes.

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Woldenberg Riverfront Park Earns National Spotlight Again as New Orleans’ Crown Jewel

If you’ve ever taken a walk along the Mississippi River in New Orleans, chances are you’ve been captivated by the sweeping views, open skies, and refreshing breezes of Woldenberg Riverfront Park. With its 14 acres of lush green space nestled between the French Quarter and the river’s edge, it has long been a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Now, once again, this beloved destination is gaining national attention, having been nominated for USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Award for Best Riverwalk in the United States.

This isn’t the first time the park has turned heads on the national stage. Last year, Woldenberg Riverfront Park made its debut in the competition and secured an impressive second-place finish. Since opening in 1989, the park has grown into more than just a scenic stretch of riverfront—it’s become a hub of community activity, culture, and connection. Its walkways, open lawns, and tree-lined paths offer a peaceful retreat from the city’s bustle, while also playing host to lively festivals and events throughout the year.

Managed by the Audubon Nature Institute, the park is also home to major New Orleans attractions like the Audubon Aquarium and the Audubon Insectarium. These institutions, along with the park itself, have consistently been recognized in the 10Best Awards, with both the Audubon Aquarium and Zoo previously ranking among the best in their respective categories. This year, the Audubon Zoo is again in the running, further highlighting the city’s standout public spaces.

Michael J. Sawaya, President and CEO of the Audubon Nature Institute, says Woldenberg Park does more than provide beautiful views. It serves as a reminder of the Mississippi River’s critical role in shaping New Orleans’ identity. He called the park’s national recognition “a tremendous honor for our entire city.”

Looking ahead, the impact of Woldenberg Riverfront Park is set to grow even larger—literally. A major expansion project, dubbed “Riverfront for All,” will soon begin construction. This ambitious effort will extend the park two additional miles, connecting it with Crescent Park and forming one of the longest uninterrupted stretches of riverfront green space in the nation. Starting this spring, the transformation will enhance access to the river and further elevate New Orleans as a model for urban waterfront development.

For those who want to show their support, voting is open online and continues daily through April 7, 2025. You can vote once per device each day, and every vote brings New Orleans one step closer to claiming the title of America’s favorite riverwalk.

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Port Dispute Deepens as Plaquemines Pushes for Alternative to $1.8 Billion Violet Terminal

A high-stakes battle over the future of Louisiana’s port infrastructure is heating up, as Plaquemines Port makes a renewed push for an alternative to the $1.8 billion container terminal project planned by the Port of New Orleans at Violet in St. Bernard Parish.

Charles Tillotson, executive director of Plaquemines Port, is lobbying Governor Jeff Landry and top transportation officials to consider a rival site farther downriver. His proposal: a joint 50/50 venture between Plaquemines and Port NOLA, placing the terminal near mile marker 50 of the Mississippi River, around West Pointe à la Hache on the West Bank. That’s approximately 35 miles south of the current Violet site.

In response, the Landry administration has taken a hands-off approach, encouraging continued dialogue between the two ports while withholding support for either plan. Julia Cormier, commissioner of the state’s Office of Intermodal Transport, emphasized that neither project has been reviewed by the new Louisiana Port and Waterways Investment Commission, a body created by Governor Landry to resolve conflicts and guide strategic port development across the state.

“For the state to take a position supporting one over the other would be irresponsible,” Cormier said.

The dispute highlights deep strategic divisions over how to reclaim market share in the fast-growing container shipping sector. While ports in Houston and Mobile have surged in volume — fueled by significant private investment and industrial partnerships — Port NOLA’s container volume has remained stagnant.

Port NOLA’s proposed Louisiana International Terminal in Violet is designed to solve one major problem: current facilities upriver, like Napoleon Avenue, can’t accommodate today’s larger container ships due to limitations posed by the Crescent City Connection bridge. Violet, located downriver from the bridge, offers better access — and the port has already made substantial progress, acquiring 1,100 acres of land, securing $800 million in private investment, and receiving a record $300 million in federal grants.

Despite this momentum, the Violet plan has faced local pushback. The St. Bernard Parish Council opposes it unanimously, citing concerns about infrastructure, traffic, and environmental impact. Several lawsuits have emerged, and the project hinges on federal permitting and construction of a toll road to connect the terminal to the interstate.

Tillotson argues that the West Bank site offers significant logistical advantages. Its proximity to the mouth of the river and location along a straight, wide stretch of the Mississippi would allow ships to cut travel time and costs—up to $400,000 per call. He also cites the site’s potential rail access through a Union Pacific line, which could provide better connectivity to key inland markets like Dallas.

Additionally, its closeness to strategic assets like the Belle Chasse Naval Air Station and the Avondale Gateway industrial zone is seen as a potential benefit, although those advantages have not been fully detailed publicly.

Port NOLA officials remain firm in their commitment to the Violet project. CEO Beth Branch, who assumed leadership in December, has signaled that construction could begin this year, pending final approvals from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

Board Chair Michael Thomas responded to the Plaquemines pitch with skepticism, pointing out that Port NOLA already owns its site, while Plaquemines Port does not. He also cited major concerns: the Plaquemines site is outside the region’s flood protection zone and currently lacks completed rail infrastructure, which could lead to costly delays, lawsuits, and environmental scrutiny.

“We’re the only deepwater port in the country with six Class One railroads,” Thomas said. “Currently, they do not have railroad connectivity.”

Tillotson has hinted that Plaquemines Port will move forward with its own terminal regardless of whether Port NOLA agrees to a joint venture. The port has already signed a nonbinding agreement with APM Terminals, a global operator owned by A.P. Moller-Maersk. Notably, APM also operates terminals in Mobile and Houston — raising concerns among Port NOLA officials about potential conflicts of interest in competitive port development.

Plaquemines Port is also poised for rapid growth, thanks in large part to the $21 billion liquefied natural gas export facility being developed by Venture Global. The plant, which began production in December, is expected to significantly boost the port’s tonnage in the coming years.

The showdown between Port NOLA and Plaquemines Port is emblematic of a broader challenge Louisiana faces: how to develop a unified port strategy in a state known for fragmented regional interests. With both container terminal proposals backed by private capital and targeting overlapping markets, coordination is crucial to avoid redundancy — or worse, internal competition that hinders progress for both.

For now, the state has chosen to remain on the sidelines, urging both sides to find common ground. But with billions of dollars, critical infrastructure, and Louisiana’s place in the global shipping economy on the line, that neutral stance may not hold for long

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