Former Blockbuster on College sold, slated for redevelopment

A Panda Express restaurant and Verizon Wireless store will replace the former Blockbuster at 3131 College Drive, says Austin Earhart, a local commercial real estate agent who worked on the deal. Dallas-based developer Walter Salek purchased the building in late December for approximately $1.2 million, Earhart says. Renovations are already under way on the building, which is roughly 5,500 square feet. Earhart says Salek is currently looking for a third tenant to fill out the space. “I don’t know when the start dates for any of the tenants are, but I’m sure they’re in a hurry,” he says. “Verizon has been wanting to get in that area for a long time, and Panda Express has also been anxious to add a few locations in Baton Rouge.” Salek could not be reached for further comment. —Steve Sanoski