Shreveport is investing $130,000 in a consulting firm to develop a strategic retail plan to revitalize its downtown district. The city’s director of economic development, Bill Sabo, says the plan aims to improve public safety, which is the top concern for business owners and residents in the area.

Safety Concerns

Poor lighting, excessive garbage, and vacant buildings are some of the issues that deter prospective investors from the area. The consultant, Retail Strategies, has rolled out a 45-question survey to gather feedback from the community and develop a plan to attract businesses.

Business owners and residents are calling for the city to enforce its laws, including those related to property standards and panhandling. The city has an anti-panhandling ordinance, but enforcement has been a challenge. Police Chief Wayne Smith says the police department is short-staffed, with 164 officer vacancies.

Revitalization Efforts

The city is working to capitalize on recent private investments in the area, including plans to convert vacant buildings into residential apartments and redevelop the film and entertainment industry. The survey and revitalization project are funded in part by the Downtown Development Authority, which is working to update the Downtown 2010 Redevelopment Strategy.

The city’s economic development department is leading the initiative and handling media engagement. Feedback from the survey will help shape priorities related to downtown vibrancy, business growth, tourism, walkability, design, and redevelopment.

Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.