By: Tom Arceneaux
Mayor of Shreveport
In a midyear address titled “Shreveport at the Half: Progress in Motion,” I recapped key accomplishments from the first six months of 2025 and laid out the city’s direction for the remainder of the year. I emphasized visible progress across infrastructure, public safety, economic development, and community engagement.
Laying the Groundwork Early in the Year
The year began with a renewed focus on infrastructure and community safety. February’s Mardi Gras parades brought thousands to Shreveport, thanks to coordinated efforts from the Shreveport Police Department, Public Works department, State Police, SPAR, and others. In March, I delivered a video-based State of the City Address, expanding access to key updates for residents.
Building Connections and Partnerships
In April, I appointed, and the City Council confirmed Verni Howard as Director of Community Development, launched Moment with the Mayor weekly video updates on the Mayor Tom Arceneaux Facebook page, and advanced public safety with Operation Curve Ball and Operation Ask Blue—initiatives targeting crime and squatter issues.
Shreveport also strengthened relationships with state leaders during Caddo Day at the Capitol and signed a partnership agreement with LSUS to begin a class on global positioning (GPI) mapping.
Delivering Major Milestones
May and June marked the arrival of Brandon Snead as the Interim Director of Water and Sewer, as well as the reopening of the historic Fairmont Tower—adding vital housing to downtown Shreveport.
At the airport, a new direct flight to Nashville launched, and the annual ArtPort event drew record crowds. SkyWest Airlines selected Shreveport as a key expansion site, increasing the city’s air travel visibility. Skywest has moved into SHV as of June 13th.
In a major digital milestone, the city launched the Economic Development One-Stop Shop—a website designed to simplify resources for entrepreneurs and investors.
And just last week, Arceneaux finalized a lease with G-Unit, led by entertainment mogul Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson, to redevelop the StageWorks building into a hub for events and film and television production.
Pride in People and Recognition
Shreveport celebrated a string of cultural and civic wins:
• LSUS Pilots’ undefeated (59-0) baseball season and national championship
• Chef Neima DiGrazia from Abby Singer’s Bistro defeating Bobby Flay on national TV
• SporTran earning national recognition as the Large Transit System of the Year
• Byrd High School (100), Querbes Golf Course (100), and Centenary College (200) each marking major anniversaries
• The $100,000 Shreveport-Bossier Innovation Challenge spotlighting local entrepreneurship
These aren’t just accomplishments—they’re proof that Shreveport’s story is being told, and told well.
Progress in Motion
There are nearly 20 bond-funded infrastructure projects currently underway or in design. The city is also advancing three new Shreveport Police Department substations—one nearing opening on Monkhouse, one under construction on North Market, and one in design at Cedar Grove Park.
Fire Station 20 will soon be reconstructed, while expansion planning is underway at Fire Station 3. A brand new Fire Station 15 is also in development.
In March, more than 30 new probationary firefighters graduated from training, strengthening public safety citywide.
Citizen-Focused Service
Through the Port City 311 campaign, residents are encouraged to report service needs and quality-of-life concerns. From potholes to illegal dumping, the more people report, the faster we respond. The city has also committed to publicly tracking litter pickup across neighborhoods.
Looking Ahead
As 2025 continues, you will see continued focus on completing infrastructure projects, rolling out new public safety tools, strengthening Shreveport’s position as a hub for creativity and investment, and ensuring equity for every neighborhood.
Our city is rising. And the people of Shreveport—you—are the reason.”