By JIM BUTLER

Proposals are being solicited for creating seniors housing on a portion of the former Central Louisiana State Hospital grounds.

The Pineville Downtown Development District is offering for sale and development three centrally located parcels totaling about 25 1/2 acres for senior housing or related residential or light commercial use.

Light commercial incorporates enterprises such as retail sales outlets, offices, restaurants, small medical or other professional facilities.

Central, which housed about 3,000 persons in need of mental health care in its heyday, had fewer than 150 when it moved to a new facility off Esler Field Road last year.

A 2023 consultant report counted 202 abandoned acres of the U.S. 71-165-167-fronting grounds suitable for development and about 179 in waterbodies, heavily vegetated open areas and greenway.

Commercial developments already operating on the former grounds include an auto dealership and a convenience store.

The solicitation is under auspices of Pan American Engineers, which will accept proposals through September 5. Grant Cooper is project engineer.