By: Prentiss Smith • Contributing Columnist

I believe that Fairgrounds Field in Shreveport stands at a crossroads, with its future hanging in the balance. While some advocate for abandoning this valuable parcel of property, maybe we should instead focus on revitalization and innovative repurposing this site that is begging to be developed. Too often, we default to tearing down and never replacing, rather than rebuilding and reinvigorating the property. The property is a valuable asset that, with the right vision, can become a thriving hub for economic and community growth.

Several months ago, I wrote about redeveloping the site where the stadium stood.  My contention then was that there were multiple viable options for repurposing Fairgrounds Field that could serve the greater good of Shreveport. One compelling idea being bandied about is to transform this valuable piece of property into a Skills Trade Center that could be part of the overall education dynamic in Caddo Parish. This could be sanctioned and operated by the Caddo Parish School Board, which has already set aside money for such a facility.

This Skills Trade Center could provide the specialized training in crucial trades such as, electricians, air conditioning technicians, computer technicians, pipefitters, welding, and other skill trades opportunities. This type of development would be a way to invest in the workforce, creating opportunities for employment and economic stability in the region. This could be a win/win for the community. We have to think out of box if we are going to attract the types of industries and jobs that are needed to make Shreveport a destination point. 

Currently, the school board has escrowed 40 million dollars for new construction that lays the financial foundation of a state-of-the-art CTE facility such as the one I am talking about. As stated in a recent article in this paper, “this new center will embody that vision, giving Shreveport’s youth the skills and opportunities they need to break the cycles of poverty and unlock brighter futures that would lift up our young and vulnerable population. 

Another promising proposal is to convert Fairgrounds Field into a state-of-the-art multi-use sports complex, which I am particularly interested in. With a strong focus on attracting major softball teams and tournaments, this initiative could generate substantial revenue for Shreveport and boost tourism. Neighboring Bossier City has already capitalized on the sports industry, and Shreveport must act decisively to remain competitive in this arena.

The Fairgrounds Field parcel of land is uniquely positioned for success due to its central location and easy accessibility. Situated near major thoroughfares like I-20 and I-220, the site is ideal for drawing regional and national events. The convenience of its location enhances its potential as a prime venue for both educational and athletic purposes, reinforcing the argument for preservation and redevelopment rather than abandonment. 

Rather than abandoning this important piece of property, we must embrace forward-thinking solutions that leverage its strategic location and building potential. Whether it becomes a trade skills hub or a premier sports destination, the Fairgrounds Field property has much to offer. It is time for Shreveport to break the cycle of destruction and abandonment, and to start investing in sustainable growth projects that benefit future generations.

It is a great piece of property. The city should not be leaving it bare, it should be building historic/legacy venues on it and doing everything possible to make it viable and useable again. Passing by it on the interstate evokes memories of full parking lots and large crowds watching the baseball games. That was a wonderful time in Shreveport and building something special on it should be a part of an overall economic development plan in Shreveport. 

Today, softball and soccer are big. Softball and soccer tournaments are big attractions today. New fans are being created, and what would be better than hundreds of teams showing up in Shreveport for major tournaments, which is something that just happened in Bossier, and they were major successes, bringing hundreds of thousands of dollars to the city. Such an all-purpose venue could attract all kinds of family-oriented activities.

Although I believe that demolishing the old Fair Grounds Stadium was shortsighted, I still believe in developing that valuable parcel of land.  As I have said in the past, it is time to start building things in Shreveport, rather than tearing them down. The Fair grounds Field property is one of those parcels of land that should be developed and put to good use for the citizens of Shreveport. And that’s the way I see it. smithpren@aol.com