The River Center’s Future Is Changing. Our Work Isn’t Finished.
Nearly two years of asking questions, seeking public records, and advocating for transparency have helped bring attention to how Baton Rouge’s taxpayer-owned River Center is managed.
Now, as the facility prepares for a new chapter, we’re committed to making sure accountability, responsible management, and the interests of taxpayers remain at the forefront.
Our Mission
Take Back the River Center is a grassroots, citizen-led initiative committed to transparency, accountability, and responsible management of the Raising Cane’s River Center, a taxpayer-owned facility in East Baton Rouge Parish.
What began as an effort to uncover answers about management practices, financial oversight, and the treatment of local businesses has grown into a continued commitment to protecting the public’s interests.
For nearly two years, we’ve submitted public records requests, raised concerns, engaged with public officials, and worked to bring greater attention to issues affecting the River Center.
As the facility enters a new chapter, our mission remains unchanged.
We believe taxpayers deserve transparency in how their facility is operated, accountability for how public resources are used, and management decisions that benefit the entire parish.
We’re encouraged by the progress, but we’re not finished asking questions.
Where We Started
Our grassroots effort began with concerns about financial transparency, management practices, and opportunities for local businesses at the River Center.
Through public records requests, research, and meetings with public officials, we pushed for answers and accountability.
We believe East Baton Rouge Parish taxpayers deserve transparency in how their facility is managed, and we’re committed to making sure their voices are heard.
Where Things Stand
The River Center is entering a new chapter as Legends Global’s management contract expires December 31, 2026. Visit Baton Rouge is overseeing the selection of a new operator, with proposals submitted by October 5.
This transition offers an opportunity for greater transparency, financial accountability, and responsible management. But real progress will be measured by results, not just a change in leadership.
What’s Next
Our focus now turns to ensuring meaningful improvements follow. We’ll continue monitoring management decisions, financial transparency, facility operations, and opportunities for local businesses.
We want to see the River Center reach its full potential as a destination for entertainment, conventions, and community events that benefit all of East Baton Rouge Parish.
This next chapter must prioritize accountability, responsible management, and taxpayers.
Progress matters. So does following through.
What You Need to Know
The Raising Cane’s River Center is a publicly owned facility that should operate with transparency, responsible financial oversight, and accountability to East Baton Rouge Parish taxpayers.
Here's where things currently stand
The Current Management Contract Is Ending
The existing management agreement with Legends Global, formerly ASM Global and SMG, is scheduled to expire December 31, 2026.
Visit Baton Rouge Is Taking on a New Role
Visit Baton Rouge is expected to oversee the River Center’s interim management arrangement beginning in 2027. A professional management company will handle day-to-day facility operations under its oversight.
The Search for a New Operator Is Underway
The deadline for management proposals was October 5, 2026. Companies submitting proposals are expected to participate in the evaluation process, with a selection targeted for later in October and final approval anticipated from the Metro Council.
Financial Transparency Remains a Priority
Publicly available financial records show operating losses in nearly every year from 2019 through 2025. We believe clear, consistent financial reporting should be a fundamental expectation of the next management agreement.
The River Center's Future Goes Beyond Management
Plans for redevelopment are also being explored, including improvements to existing facilities, expanded entertainment and convention opportunities, and a proposed headquarters hotel.
These decisions will have long-term implications for taxpayers, local businesses, and the future of East Baton Rouge Parish.
We believe the public deserves to be informed and involved every step of the way.