Federal Opportunity Zones

Opportunity Zones There are 150 census tracts in Louisiana that are qualified and active opportunity zones. Program benefits for these 150 census tracts will sunset December 31, 2028. The OBBB provides that the 90-day determination period for new OZ 2.0 areas will begin July 1, 2026. Federally approved tracts will take effect as qualified opportunity zones on January 1, 2027. Louisiana’s existing 150 tract recommendations were determined based on a strategic review of feedback from local, state and federal elected officials; economic and community development organizations; private developers; private equity firms; non-profit organizations; churches; and individuals. LED’s review and comprehensive analysis considered the following factors: The potential for development based on known certified sites, tracts of land, or buildings within the eligible census tract. Proximity to regional assets (ports, airports, industrial parks, tech parks, colleges and universities, etc.). Opportunities to leverage other designations such as NMTC or Enterprise Zones. That coverage included a mix of tracts – some with high potential for economic development and others with high potential for community development ( affordable use real estate, and any other types of quality of place enhancements). The end goal to ensure a fair and balanced distribution of zones across each of the eight economic development regions of the state. The end goal to ensure adequate coverage in both rural and urban areas. The potential for development based on known certified sites, tracts of land, or buildings within the eligible census tract. Proximity to regional assets (ports, airports, industrial parks, tech parks, colleges and universities, etc.). Opportunities to leverage other designations such as NMTC or Enterprise Zones. That coverage included a mix of tracts – some with high potential for economic development and others with high potential for community development ( affordable use real estate, and any other types of quality of place enhancements). The end goal to ensure a fair and balanced distribution of zones across each of the eight economic development regions of the state. The end goal to ensure adequate coverage in both rural and urban areas. Browse Louisiana’s Opportunity Zones census tracts https://led.maps.arcgis.com/apps/instant/atlas/index.html?appid=a68407674d6c40caa9bada5ae2380698&webmap=ebe269a17889408588c68796422529fc Frequently Asked Questions: IRS FAQ Resources : EIG CDFI Fund CDFA Opportunity Zones Resource Center