SHREVEPORT, La. – BRF and The Committee of One Hundred (C100) have partnered with the City of Shreveport and local law enforcement to enhance safety and improve first impressions along Monkhouse Drive, a key corridor near Shreveport Regional Airport.
The two organizations each contributed $30,000, totaling $60,000, for the purchase and installation of security cameras along the roadway. The investment is part of a broader city effort to revitalize the area through infrastructure, lighting, and beautification improvements.
“Security cameras along Monkhouse Drive, from the airport to Interstate 20, will provide real-time monitoring to support law enforcement and improve safety for residents, travelers and local businesses,” said Dr. John F. George Jr., BRF president and CEO. “These improvements, via the successful passage by voters of Shreveport’s 2024 bond issue, are intended to contribute to a safe, vibrant and welcoming corridor.”
The bond issue approved by voters allocates $2 million for infrastructure and beautification projects on Monkhouse Drive. The initiative aims to address long-standing challenges including safety concerns, blight, and infrastructure deterioration along the half-mile stretch that serves as a main entrance for visitors arriving through Shreveport Regional Airport.
“Both BRF and C100 see investment in this gateway to our city as critical to the region’s economic success,” said C100 President David Dethloff. “C100 has a longstanding interest in ensuring this region supports business growth and development, and that we remain a competitive and attractive community to both residents and visitors.”
Law enforcement agencies, including the Shreveport Police Department and the Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office, will be key partners in implementing the safety upgrades. A new police substation recently opened near Monkhouse Drive at the former Foremost plant site to increase patrol presence in the area.
Shreveport Mayor Tom Arceneaux said the collaboration demonstrates the city’s unified approach to progress. “The collaboration between public, private and nonprofit partners exemplifies that we are all devoted to moving Shreveport forward,” he said. “This investment delivers visible, lasting improvements in one of our most important gateways and supports our shared vision of a safer, stronger Shreveport.”
City Councilman Rev. James Green said the improvements will strengthen the area’s appeal. “Monkhouse Drive is the front door to our city for hundreds of thousands of visitors every year who use Shreveport Regional Airport,” he said. “We should continue to display the pride of our city and Shreveport’s welcoming culture once visitors step outside of our airport.”
The Monkhouse Drive Revitalization Project is a joint effort supported by BRF, C100, the City of Shreveport, and community partners. Plans include roadway resurfacing, new sidewalks, lighting, noise abatement, and blight remediation to create a corridor that reflects Shreveport’s economic and cultural potential.