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Shreveport to Begin Construction on New Police Substations

Construction of the North Market police substation in Shreveport aims to improve local law enforcement presence.

News Summary

Shreveport is enhancing its public safety with the upcoming construction of new police substations, starting with the North Market location. This initiative aims to increase police presence and community engagement. Funded by a bond issue approved by voters, the North Market substation’s construction begins next month, with another planned for Southeast Shreveport. City officials stress the importance of improved law enforcement facilities for community safety, showcasing a proactive approach to public safety and police-community relations as ongoing work continues on existing substations.

Shreveport is set to enhance its public safety infrastructure with the commencement of construction on new police substations, starting with the North Market substation. This project, which is a part of an initiative to increase police presence and responsiveness, will begin next month at the corner of North Market and North Hearne streets, with an expected completion time of about six months.

The funding for the North Market substation was secured through a bond issue approved by voters in late 2021, reflecting community support for improved law enforcement facilities. Notably, the land on which the substation will be built was generously donated by the North Shreveport Business Association specifically for this purpose. This strategic location is intended to house police patrol officers dedicated to serving North Shreveport, enhancing security and community engagement in the area.

In tandem with the North Market substation, the city has announced plans for a second facility in Southeast Shreveport, to be constructed at the corner of W.70th Street and St. Vincent Avenue in Cedar Grove. This site is situated on a portion of Cedar Grove Park property. Construction bids for the Cedar Grove substation are anticipated to be taken later this year, with a target date for it to become operational by summer 2026. City officials have ensured that while the new substation is built, the existing playground equipment in the park will remain intact, with only slight relocations needed for a nearby ball field to accommodate the construction.

Currently, the first substation, located on Monkhouse Drive, is near completion, with approximately 98% of the work finished. The only remaining tasks are related to technical services, marking a significant step toward bolstering law enforcement capabilities in the region.

As part of this initiative, Shreveport City Council members have underscored the urgent need for a suitable location for police officers assigned to patrol the eastern parts of the city. This urgency is heightened due to health concerns related to the current headquarters, which have been flagged for environmental issues. In response, the city has approved a lease for part of King’s Temple United Pentecostal Church on Kingston Road. This temporary facility will be utilized to house officers while the other substations are being developed.

There is also a strategic plan in place for the Canyon Road temporary location to serve as an operational base for Area 4 officers, and potentially for Area 2 officers, until their dedicated substation becomes available.

The careful selection of the substation locations has been applauded, with Mayor Tom Arceneaux crediting the efforts of District “D” Councilman Grayson Boucher, particularly for the Cedar Grove site that ensures minimal disruption to existing community facilities.

The development of these substations signifies a proactive approach towards improving public safety and community-police relations throughout Shreveport. As construction progresses on these new facilities, city officials remain committed to ensuring effective law enforcement access across the different neighborhoods, thus enhancing the overall safety and well-being of Shreveport residents. With these initiatives, the city aims to bolster its preparedness and responsiveness in addressing public safety needs throughout the community.