Changes Ahead for Greater Shreveport Chamber of Commerce

News Summary

The Greater Shreveport Chamber of Commerce is set for transformative changes with Tom Simms stepping in as chairman for 2025. Simms’ extensive experience will guide the chamber in launching initiatives aimed at supporting the community, notably the restoration of a historic building and partnerships for youth internships. The chamber is poised to play an essential role in local economic development and will focus on fostering collaboration between schools and businesses while supporting the military community.

Exciting Changes at Greater Shreveport Chamber of Commerce

Shreveport is buzzing with exciting news as the Greater Shreveport Chamber of Commerce gets ready to embark on a new chapter with its fresh leadership. With Tom Simms stepping in as the newly appointed chairman for 2025, it looks like there’s a lot to look forward to for the chamber and its initiatives.

Decades of Experience to Lead the Way

Tom Simms brings over 30 years of experience as a chamber member to his new role. He’s no stranger to the inner workings of the chamber and is ready to kick off a series of ambitious projects this year that aim to positively impact the local community. Emphasizing collaboration with local schools, Simms is set to lead the charge as they roll out three main initiatives designed to uplift and propel Shreveport forward.

A Historic Building Gets a Makeover

One of the most talked-about initiatives is the significant rehabilitation of the historic 103-year-old building located at 400 Edwards St. This building holds a special place in the heart of Shreveport, having originally served as the Shreve Memorial Library, and it’s about to receive some much-needed love. Ownership of the building was transferred from the city to the chamber in 2022, paving the way for this stunning restoration project.

The Greater Shreveport Chamber has set its sights on a major capital campaign, aiming to raise $5 million to fund necessary improvements and repairs. The focus will be on preserving the building’s historical façade while making updates to improve accessibility and enhance key systems like heating, ventilation, and air conditioning.

Engaging the Youth and Supporting Local Business

Another key initiative on Simms’ agenda is fostering educational opportunities through partnerships with Caddo Parish’s school system. The chamber is dedicated to helping high school students land internships with local businesses, providing them with valuable exposure to various career paths before they graduate. With a strong focus on youth engagement, the chamber aims to bridge the gap between education and the workforce, giving young people a head start in their professional journeys.

Support for the local military community is also high on the list of priorities. The chamber is committed to providing a unifying voice for local businesses and offering the necessary support to Barksdale Air Force Base and its dedicated servicemen and women, especially during these uncertain times. This support not only strengthens community ties but also bolsters the local economy.

The Building Celebrates a Milestone

As the building celebrated its 100th anniversary on December 8, 2023, it stands as an architectural gem in Shreveport. Historical supporters and city officials have lauded the building’s significance to the community and its heritage as a symbol of Shreveport’s evolution over the years. Originally funded through a successful bond issue promoted by former Mayor John McWilliams Ford after World War I, the structure has undergone various renovations since the chamber officially took over in 1983.

Preserving Character through Modern Renovations

The preservation of historical elements has been a focal point during the renovations, maintaining the charm of the building while integrating modern amenities. The designs, handled by Christopher Coe of COE Architecture International, emphasize subtlety, ensuring that the enhancements do not overshadow the beautiful legacy of this iconic structure.

The Road Ahead

With a committed board and a clear vision, the Greater Shreveport Chamber of Commerce is ready to usher in a new era of growth, support, and community involvement. As local businesses gear up for another year, the chamber is poised to play an essential role in economic development and creating a nurturing environment for business growth. Shreveport is excited to see where Simms and his team will lead them in 2025!

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Additional Resources

• Shreveport Bossier Advocate: New Shreveport Chamber Chair
• K945: Popular Shreveport Salad Spot Back Open
• Shreveport Times: Historic Downtown Building Celebrates 100 Years
• KSLA: People Celebrate 400 Edwards St.’s Past
• Shreveport Bossier Advocate: Shreveport Office Towers Hope for Improvement
• Wikipedia: Greater Shreveport Chamber of Commerce
• Google Search: Shreveport Chamber of Commerce
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Shreveport
• Google News: Shreveport Business
• Google Scholar: Shreveport Chamber of Commerce