Shreveport Declares Emergency at Police Headquarters Due to Hazardous Conditions
Shreveport, Louisiana, has become the center of attention lately due to some serious issues brewing at the headquarters of the Shreveport Police Department. Between mildew, raw sewage problems, and issues with the cooling system, conditions have gotten to the point where they are anything but acceptable for the hardworking officers stationed there. In response to these alarming circumstances, members of the Shreveport City Council have taken significant action by declaring a state of emergency regarding the deteriorating state of the police headquarters located at 1234 Texas St.
Immediate Relocation Plans
City Council members have voiced their concerns and suggested that it’s time to relocate all personnel from the affected building as swiftly as possible. The good news is that Mayor Tom Arceneaux is already on the case! He has rushed to expedite the process to ensure that our police officers have a safe and healthy working environment. In a heartwarming letter addressed to the City Council members, he expressed appreciation for their support and concern regarding the building’s conditions.
According to police Cpl. Chris Bordelon, the officers truly value the support from both City Council and Mayor Arceneaux. “First and foremost, we do want to thank the outpouring from the City Council and as well as Mayor Arceneaux about taking concern for the building situation here at 1234 Texas,” he said. This kind of solidarity and concern bodes well for the future of the department and the community at large.
Finding a New Home for the Department
In the upcoming weeks, Mayor Arceneaux and Police Chief Wayne Smith will be on the lookout for several vacant buildings that could be potential new locations for the SPD headquarters. “Hopefully in the coming weeks, we’re going to have a step-by-step procedure as to moving out of this location,” Bordelon noted. This proactive approach is vital as they aim to find a swift and efficient transition for all personnel.
Potential buildings being considered for the move include empty department stores, former schools no longer in use, and more. “Initially that is what we’re looking for, the large location to move all of patrol and administration operations very quickly,” Bordelon emphasized. The overarching goal? To ensure the public safety of Shreveport citizens by resolving these issues as soon as possible.
New Substations on the Horizon
But that’s not all! Shreveport’s relocation plan isn’t just about a new headquarters. The entire process will also include creating new substations to improve the department’s ability to serve the community. One specific location on Monkhouse Drive is already under construction and is expected to be completed by the end of October.
This new facility sits on approximately 13 acres and will house multiple police operations. “One of those facilities is getting set to open and is going to house our entire traffic division,” Bordelon explained. This means that officers currently working from the Texas Avenue location will soon be making the move to Monkhouse Drive. It’s a breath of fresh air for everyone involved!
Looking Toward the Future
As plans unfold, all personnel are expected to be out of the Texas Avenue headquarters by sometime in 2025, while the new headquarters is anticipated to be completed by 2027. This extended timeline allows for a thorough and deliberate approach to ensuring all areas of the department are equipped and ready to serve the Shreveport community effectively.
The bold steps being taken by Mayor Arceneaux, Police Chief Smith, and the City Council demonstrate a commitment to not only the safety of the officers but also the safety and well-being of all Shreveport residents. The relocation plan is more than just about a buildings; it’s about paving the way for a brighter, safer future for everyone in the community.
