Community members are invited to give input to reimagine a safer, beautiful, and economically prosperous Kings Highway corridor.
The Kings Highway Coalition, a group of community organizations, neighborhood groups, and institutions, announced it aims to use public meetings to gather community input on proposed infrastructure improvements, economic development opportunities, and enhancements to the quality of life in the Kings Highway area. These improvements will be implemented starting in the spring of 2025.
“Kings Highway is one of Shreveport’s sorely under-recognized gems,” said Chris Lyon, founding member of ReForm Shreveport, one of the coalition’s partner organizations. “With even modest improvements to the roadway, traffic flows, and environmental and public amenities, this area would see a wave of interest and revitalization that could lift up all of the residents, businesses, and institutions in the area.”
Coalition members include:
ReForm Shreveport
Centenary College of Louisiana
Highland Neighborhood Association
Gladstone Area Partnership
The Highland Center
Individuals in architecture, public engagement, and policy backgrounds
The group hopes to expand to include any residents, businesses, property owners, and students who would benefit from the positive changes to the area.
Three meetings are to be held this fall for the community to improve Kings Highway, and participate in constructive exercises that will shape the future of the area.
Meeting Details:
Saturday, September 28th, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. at Centenary College’s Whited Room (2911 Centenary Blvd.)
Saturday, October 26th, 10 a.m.-12 p.m., First Presbyterian Church Gymnasium (900 Jordan St.)
Saturday, November 16th, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. at Centenary College’s Whited Room (2911 Centenary Blvd.)
The Kings Highway Coalition is made up of a number of organizations and individuals interested in seeing the street revitalized.
Topics of discussion:
Infrastructure Enhancements: Improving roadways, pedestrian walkways, and public transportation facilities
Economic Development: Encouraging local business growth and attracting new investments
Community Connectivity: Creating spaces that foster community interaction and support local activities
Sustainability: Exploring environmental improvements such as tree cover to reduce heat, absorb vehicle emissions, methods for groundwater retention, and more
The three meetings will produce ideas for two phases. The first phase would be a short-term improvement plan aimed at low-cost solutions for the area adjacent to Centenary College from Holly Street to Centenary Boulevard. The second phase is a long-term plan with the goal of major improvements from Youree Drive to Line Avenue, beginning in 2027 with the assistance of federal and state funding.
“All are welcome, with a special invitation for those who are residents, businesses, institutions, organizations, or property owners within the Kings Highway area,” said a statement from the Kings Highway Coalition.