Exciting Changes Ahead for Kings Highway in Shreveport
Shreveport, Louisiana, known for its rich history and vibrant community, is buzzing with anticipation as the Kings Highway Corridor is set to undergo a transformation. This charming stretch, home to Centenary College, beloved local businesses like Strawn’s Eat Shop, and media hub KTBS 3, has felt the weight of time and neglect. But change is on the horizon!
The Kings Highway Coalition Steps In
Recently, members of the community came together to brainstorm ideas for revitalizing Kings Highway. The newly formed Kings Highway Coalition, spearheaded by ReForm Shreveport, hosted an event aimed at gathering input from locals. Chris Lyon, a dedicated founding member of ReForm Shreveport, shared his thoughts about the project, stating, “For a long time, Kings Highway has been left to sort of deteriorate. The people that are still here are struggling to make it work, but what we’re wanting to do today is figure out how we can make Kings Highway stronger. So that the people who are here don’t have to work as hard and can be more successful, safer, and all the things that come with it.”
A Fresh Approach to Community Planning
What’s particularly refreshing about this initiative is that the community is taking the reins from the start. Instead of waiting for the city to draft a proposal, attendees were encouraged to share their dreams for the area on a blank canvas: “What do we want this community to be?” Lyon explained. The community will propose their vision, and the city will then develop a comprehensive plan around those ideas.
Phased Improvements on the Way
The revitalization project will unfold in two phases, with phase one expected to kick off in the spring of 2025. “City money has already been allocated to do something along Kings Highway between basically Holly Street, where KTBS is, all the way down to Centenary Boulevard,” Lyon detailed. Phase two, which is grander in scale, aims to attract millions of dollars in federal and state funding to extend from Youree Drive to the interstate. This ambitious plan could take several years to fully execute, but the groundwork will begin soon.
Inspiration from Nearby Successes
During the meeting, participants were shown successful revitalization examples from nearby towns. One such case was Bossier City‘s East Bank area, which served to inspire confidence that positive changes are possible. Those in attendance left feeling hopeful that a bright, beautified future for Kings Highway is not only a dream but a real possibility.
What’s Next for Kings Highway?
The sense of community spirit was palpable as ideas flowed, and people rallied around the shared goal of revitalizing this important corridor. It’s evident that Kings Highway holds more than just a place on the map; it holds the stories, struggles, and aspirations of the people who navigate it daily. As plans begin to take shape, all eyes will be on the community as they pave the way for a revitalized Kings Highway, one that reflects the heart and soul of Shreveport.
As we move closer to actionable plans and community engagement, there’s a feeling of excitement in the air. Shreveport, with its commitment to collaboration and improvement, is indeed taking steps to ensure that Kings Highway doesn’t just survive but thrives.
Stay tuned for updates, and perhaps consider how you can contribute your ideas to this community-driven endeavor that aims to breathe new life into an iconic part of Shreveport!
