Shreveport, LA, August 20, 2025
News Summary
A recent survey by Bob Thames revealed mixed feelings among Shreveport residents regarding living conditions and crime concerns in downtown. With over 200 responses, many expressed a desire to improve urban living, emphasizing safety and amenities. Despite concerns about crime and insufficient housing, optimism for downtown’s future remains strong, prompting discussions on enhancements and community engagement.
Downtown Shreveport Survey Reveals Mixed Sentiments on Living Conditions and Crime Concerns
A recent survey conducted by Bob Thames, co-founder of Single Source Business Solutions, has brought to light mixed feelings about living conditions and safety in downtown Shreveport. The survey, which was shared across various social media platforms, attracted over 200 responses, primarily from individuals aged 35 to 44. These findings hint at a community eager to voice their opinions on the potential for improvements in their urban environment.
Nearly 42% of respondents expressed a willingness to consider residing in downtown Shreveport, albeit under certain conditions. Key concerns include the need for more spacious living arrangements, heightened safety measures, and an increase in dining options. Specific feedback pointed to a shortage of suitable properties, with several participants highlighting issues such as car break-ins and overall safety as primary deterrents.
Among those who previously lived downtown, several cited their departure due to insufficient living space and distractions from nearby nightlife, particularly noise originating from local nightclubs. These experiences illustrate the challenges that potential new residents face, posing significant barriers to urban living in the area.
The survey also revealed a wealth of aspirations for downtown’s future, with over 215 suggestions covering potential business opportunities and amenities. Respondents proposed diversifying the downtown experience with enhanced offerings such as bike tours, rooftop restaurants, bookstores, and local shops. Additionally, suggestions for improving infrastructure included better parking solutions, improved lighting for safety, and cleaning up neglected alleyways.
Community engagement suggestions were also prevalent. Participants recommended hosting unique events like rooftop crawfish boils, outdoor music festivals, and classic car cruises to foster a vibrant downtown atmosphere. Thames noted that while 51% of respondents regularly visit downtown, enhancing shopping options and increasing attendance at community meetings could further bolster interest and activity.
However, the survey is not without its challenges. Numerous respondents raised concerns regarding crime and safety, homelessness, blighted buildings, and inadequate parking. While these issues cast a shadow on the overall positive sentiments expressed by others regarding the city’s potential, they highlight the pressing need for comprehensive solutions to enhance downtown living conditions.
Despite these concerns, many respondents remained optimistic about the future of downtown Shreveport. They encouraged the community to explore opportunities that would attract residents and visitors alike, moving beyond mere event-related engagement.
In response to the findings, Thames plans to present the survey results to local authorities, including elected officials and the Downtown Development Authority. Furthermore, a town hall meeting is anticipated, aimed at fostering grassroots community discussions about the future developments of downtown Shreveport.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the purpose of the downtown Shreveport survey?
The survey aimed to gauge community sentiment regarding living conditions, crime concerns, and improvement suggestions for downtown Shreveport.
How many responses were collected in the survey?
Over 200 responses were received from the community.
What percentage of respondents would consider living in downtown Shreveport?
Approximately 42% of respondents indicated they would consider living downtown, given the right conditions.
What were the main concerns raised by respondents?
Key concerns included the need for more spacious living arrangements, safety issues, a lack of suitable properties, and an increase in dining options.
What suggestions did respondents provide for improving downtown?
Suggestions included expanding bike tours, creating more rooftop restaurants, increasing local shops, improving parking and lighting, and hosting community events.
What are the next steps following the survey results?
Thames plans to present the findings to local authorities and hold a town hall meeting for community discussions on the future of downtown Shreveport.
Key Features of Downtown Shreveport Survey
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Survey Initiator | Bob Thames, Single Source Business Solutions |
| Responses Collected | Over 200 |
| Demographics | Primarily aged 35 to 44 |
| Interest in Living Downtown | 42% of respondents |
| Main Concerns | Living space, safety, dining options |
| Community Suggestions | 215 detailed responses on amenities and engagement |
| Next Steps | Presentation to local authorities, town hall meeting |
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Additional Resources
- Shreveport Bossier Advocate: Downtown Survey
- Google Search: Downtown Shreveport survey
- KSLA: Gavin Newsom Calls Out Shreveport
- Wikipedia: Crime in the United States
- KTBS: Bossier Parish Man Faces Charges
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Public Safety
- Shreveport Bossier Advocate: California Governor’s Comments
- Google News: Shreveport crime rate
Author: STAFF HERE SHREVEPORT WRITER
The SHREVEPORT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREShreveport.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Shreveport, Caddo Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mudbug Madness Festival, Red River Revel Arts Festival, and Independence Bowl. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Shreveport-Bossier Chamber of Commerce and Shreveport Regional Arts Council, plus leading businesses in gaming, healthcare, and energy that power the local economy such as Horseshoe Casino, Ochsner LSU Health, and Atmos Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBatonRouge.com and HERENewOrleans.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.
