No matter how one defines the geographical area as southeast Shreveport, there is no doubt that the SE Shreveport area generates substantial sales tax income to the City of Shreveport. It’s fair to say that the sales tax income from this area far exceeds that of any other area of the City--probably more that several areas combined.
Despite this fact, there has been no substantial movement on locating a substation for Shreveport Police in this area.
North Market has a lot cleared for a substation thanks in large part of a donation of the site by the North Shreveport Business Association to the City. Ground was broken at the location in November of last year.
Monkhouse Drive and Interstate is the location of a second police substation in the former Foremost Diary facility which is owned by the City. Ground was broken for the West Substation in February of this year.
And how about SE Shreveport?
Reportedly Shreveport Police Chief Wayne Smith has nixed a location that is favored by at least two Shreveport council members at 8509 Line Avenue. Reportedly Chief Wayne has stated he needs 100 parking spaces, and this location only has approximately 50. However, this site has a large grassy area on the side of the building that could be converted to parking. There is a substantial question if that many spaces are needed for SPD and the public visiting the substation at any one time.
No doubt there are other locations in SE Shreveport that could be converted into a substation. There has been discussion of the SWEPCO building on Line Avenue across from Tony's Liquor, the Unitarian Church on Ellerbe, the old Shreveport Credit Union on Fern, the large vacant lot further down Line adjacent to the Dollar General, the former Twisted Root building and many others.
So, what’s the deal? Why no progress? Why is Chief Wayne so dilatory in taking action? Why is Mayor Tom not pushing hard to get a substation in SE Shreveport? Why is an area that has an overwhelming majority of white residents being ignored while areas that are overwhelming black in population see substantial progress on substations?
John came to Shreveport in January of 1977 when he was transferred to Barksdale AFB.
He’s been active in Shreveport politics since deciding to make Shreveport his home.
John practiced law for 40 years and he now monitors local politics. He regularly attends Shreveport City Council and Caddo Parish Commission meetings.
John is published weekly in The Inquisitor, bi-monthly in The Forum News, and frequently in the Shreveport Times.
He enjoys addressing civic groups on local government issues and elections.