Shreveport, La. – In the debut episode of “Good Morning Mayor” on First News, Mayor Tom Arceneaux gave a detailed update on the city’s biggest initiatives, emphasizing tangible progress that benefits families and neighborhoods across the community.
Bond package moves forward
The $256.1 million municipal bond approved by voters in April 2024 is now well into implementation. “Over 90 of those are either under construction or under design,” Mayor Arceneaux said, noting that the majority of projects are already breaking ground or in the planning stage. The bond funds more than 100 projects, ranging from street redesigns that address long‑standing road repair issues to upgrades of public facilities.
Revitalizing blighted areas
Through the city’s “Block by Block” initiative, Shreveport is tackling inner‑city blight head‑on. Last year the city demolished 255 abandoned structures, and the demolition pace is on track to exceed that number this year. While demolition is a necessary first step, the mayor stressed that the city is pairing it with pilot programs in the Mooretown and Highland neighborhoods to attract private investment and bring residents back to the city core.
Violent crime on a downward trend
Public safety officials received credit for strong clearance rates and a measurable decline in violent crime. Shreveport police now solve roughly 65 % of reported crimes, a figure that surpasses the national average. “Violent crime is down by double digits in Shreveport,” the mayor said, adding that homicide rates have continued a multi‑year downward trend despite the tragic loss of eight children in an April 19 incident.
Water and sewer system improvements
Addressing ongoing concerns about water pressure, the mayor announced the city is securing a site for a fourth elevated water tower in Southeast Shreveport. The new tower will help boost delivery pressure in areas that have experienced low flow. Additionally, two industrial generators have been purchased to support the water and sewer system, with installation slated for the end of the year.
Mayor’s outlook
“We didn’t get here overnight. We won’t get out of here overnight,” Arceneaux said, underscoring the steady, long‑term nature of the work. He expressed confidence that the combined bond projects, crime‑reduction efforts and infrastructure upgrades will continue to improve quality of life for Shreveport families and support the city’s growth.
The mayor’s update reflects a clear commitment to responsible stewardship of taxpayer‑approved funds, a focus on public safety and a dedication to ensuring reliable utilities for all residents. As the projects move forward, Shreveport citizens can expect continued enhancements to streets, neighborhoods and essential services.
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.
