Shreveport Residents Rally to Save Fair Grounds Field
Shreveport is a city known for its rich history and vibrant community, but this week, local advocates took a stand to save a significant piece of that history—Fair Grounds Field. The Friends of Fair Grounds Field group is on a mission to preserve the multi-purpose stadium, which the City of Shreveport plans to demolish. During a friendly luncheon held at Bilberry Park in the Queensborough neighborhood, the advocates presented their vision for a much-needed renovation of the aging stadium.
A Great Turnout and Positive Energy
Bill Robertson, a spokesperson for the Friends of Fair Grounds Field, was thrilled with the support from local leaders who attended the event. He remarked, “We had a great turnout of local leaders. We shared our beautiful renderings of what Fair Grounds Field could look like after renovation, as well as our ideas for multi-party ownership and management of the park.” The gathering wasn’t just a small affair; it included a who’s who of local officials, including State Representative Steven Jackson, members of the Caddo Parish Commission, and City Council members like Tabatha Taylor and James Green.
Calling for Community Support
Attendees were treated to stunning architectural renderings that showcased how the stadium could be transformed to serve the community once more. The event also provided a platform for voices in the community, like Vanita Williams, a longtime Queensborough resident, who passionately urged local leaders to support their campaign. “I’ve campaigned for each and every one of you,” she said, with emotion in her voice. “Now I want you to campaign for me and save this stadium.”
Preservation vs. Demolition: The Debate Heats Up
As the discussion unfolded, it became clear that many community members believe that demolishing Fair Grounds Field would be a grave mistake. Linc Coleman, a local business supporter, emphasized the stadium’s importance, saying, “To recreate it today would easily cost $50 million. We can renovate it for pennies on the dollar.” Coleman went on to criticize the city’s decision for demolition, claiming that officials haven’t provided enough evidence to justify their claims that the stadium is structurally unsound.
Expert Perspectives
Adding to the chorus of support, architect Christopher Coe compared the stadium’s durable construction to a “World War II bunker,” suggesting that its cast-in-place concrete could have a long life if restored properly. Coe’s vision for renovation includes charming touches like red brick and cast stone that would create a nostalgic look—a nod to historic stadiums like Fenway Park.
Community Revitalization and Public Safety
Commissioner Roy Burrell highlighted the broader implications of restoring Fair Grounds Field, noting that the revitalization could positively impact the surrounding Queensborough community, which has often been overlooked. He emphasized the importance of this project for economic growth, stating, “Queensborough has long been neglected despite its role as an economic engine for Shreveport.”
However, it’s not just restoration that’s on the minds of community members. There are serious health concerns regarding demolition, particularly the risk of exposure to histoplasmosis from bat feces that could be found at the site. Friends of Fair Grounds Field is calling on the State Department of Health to ensure public safety before any demolition work takes place.
A Fight for Resources
The City of Shreveport has backed its demolition plans with a $600,000 allocation from the federal American Rescue Plan. But the Friends of Fair Grounds Field dispute the appropriateness of using these funds for demolishing the stadium and are asking Louisiana’s Congressional delegation to investigate this allocation closely.
Join the Movement!
Supporters of saving Fair Grounds Field can still make their voices heard. They’re encouraged to check out the architectural renderings and sign a petition through the Friends of Fair Grounds Field’s social media channels. It’s a defining moment for Shreveport—one where history, community, and future opportunities collide.
