Bossier City, LA — The Bossier Parish Police Jury met on June 4 to review plans for the 2025 KTBS Freedom Fest Finale, introduce a new Bossier City Engineer, and receive updates on local infrastructure projects and public communications.
Freedom Fest Returns to South Bossier Park
Jan Elkins, Community Project Director for KTBS, presented details on the 2025 KTBS Freedom Fest Finale, which will take place Thursday, July 4, at South Bossier Park. Now in its third year at the park, the event has become a growing tradition in the Ark-La-Tex region, celebrating Independence Day with live music, food vendors, family activities, and a grand fireworks display.
Last year’s event drew approximately 1,800 attendees. Organizers expect that number to increase this year, highlighting the event’s positive community and economic impact. South Bossier Park continues to serve as a prime location thanks to its spacious grounds and family-friendly environment.
Andy Bajnauth Introduced as Bossier City Engineer
The Police Jury welcomed Andy Bajnauth, P.E., MBA, as the new City Engineer for Bossier City. Bajnauth introduced himself to jurors and shared highlights from his career, which includes six years with the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development and eight years in private consulting.
As City Engineer, Bajnauth will oversee multiple divisions within the Engineering Department, including Building Maintenance, Flood Hazard Information, GIS, Permits and Inspections, Property Standards, and Traffic Engineering. He will work closely with developers, contractors, and city officials to ensure infrastructure projects meet Bossier City standards.
Bossier Press-Tribune Reappointed as Official Journal
Following the opening of sealed bids, the Bossier Press-Tribune was selected as the Official Journal of the Bossier Parish Police Jury for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026.
The Press-Tribune, which submitted the only bid, has maintained a longstanding partnership with the parish, ensuring timely publication of official proceedings, legal notices, and public announcements. The appointment reinforces the Jury’s commitment to transparency and public access to government information.
Progress Continues on South Bossier Bridge Repairs
Parish Engineer Eric Hudson reported continued progress on two major bridge reconstruction projects: Caplis-Sligo Road and Smith Road.
Caplis-Sligo Road bridge, closed since July 4, 2024, is on track for a late summer reopening. Deck panels have been installed and concrete work is set to begin soon.
At Smith Road, foundational piles have been successfully installed. The bridge’s new design increases the span between support piles from 15 feet to 40 feet, which is expected to reduce wood drift and extend the bridge’s lifespan. Completion is projected for late fall or early winter.
These projects reflect Bossier Parish’s ongoing commitment to infrastructure improvements and roadway safety.