Shell Donates $27.5 Million to LSU for Energy Innovation

Shell USA is giving LSU $27.5 million to establish an energy innovation institute and support construction of an interdisciplinary science building. Baton Rouge-area development remains active, with proposed projects including a surgery center, a gymnastics facility and retail space, and a subdivision, while a downtown office building has sold for $24.7 million. The region’s housing market is cooling, with fewer home sales and experts expecting subdued activity as mortgage rates rise. Louisiana also faces workforce and economic challenges: enrollment in trade programs has declined despite demand for skilled industrial workers, and local banks are seeking stronger penalties for ATM thefts. Other regional business coverage includes efforts to expand women’s representation in LSU leadership and a proposed carbon-capture hub in Calcasieu Parish, which a study says could avert substantial environmental damages.