Shreveport, September 29, 2025
News Summary
The city of Shreveport is taking steps to repave Ford Street, with utility relocations complete. However, state funding delays may postpone the project until the next fiscal year. The Louisiana DOTD allocated $750,000 for repairs, but the total costs may exceed $1 million. Community leaders express hope that the project will improve the roadway’s infrastructure and safety once it proceeds.
Shreveport is gearing up for the long-awaited repaving of Ford Street, a state-maintained road that is currently in disrepair. A key milestone was reached with the completion of utility relocation, which enables the next phase of the project. However, the repaving schedule is now anticipated to be delayed until at least next fiscal year, depending on the approval of funding by the state legislature.
The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) previously announced the plan to repair Ford Street last year. The city of Shreveport has been proactive by undertaking preliminary work, including the hiring of a contractor to relocate water and sewer lines from under Ford Street. This effort is essential prior to state restoration activities.
Funding for this utility relocation project was approved in early 2024, when the Shreveport City Council allocated $4.4 million in American Rescue Plan Act resources. In addition to Ford Street, the city council also set aside funds for reconstruction work on Knight Street and various other road projects. Some council members expressed concerns in 2023 about the equitable distribution of these American Rescue Plan funds.
Interim Water and Sewerage Department Director Brandon Snead confirmed that the work associated with the utility relocation under Ford Street has been completed. This paves the way for the DOTD to proceed with the repaving plans. According to DOTD spokesperson Erin Buchanan, the repaving project will consist of an overlay, which involves milling off the old asphalt and replacing it with new material.
The DOTD has allocated $750,000 for the Ford Street repair project, although officials indicate that additional funding may be necessary to cover the total projected cost, which estimates range from $1 million to $1.2 million. Furthermore, Delta Utilities is poised to relocate gas lines underneath Ford Street before the DOTD initiates its work. This utility relocation will ensure all lines are leak-free and properly configured before any construction starts.
Councilwoman Tabatha Taylor expressed enthusiasm about the progress of the project, noting the longstanding need for improvements to the infrastructure on Ford Street. With the completion of the utility relocation, the community anticipates moving forward with a much-needed enhancement of this vital roadway.
Although the repaving of Ford Street may take longer than expected, the groundwork has been laid to ensure that the final project will improve safety and accessibility for motorists and residents in the area.
FAQ
What is being done to Ford Street in Shreveport?
The city is preparing for the repaving of Ford Street, which includes the relocation of utilities underneath the roadway to facilitate state restoration efforts.
Why is the repaving of Ford Street delayed?
The repaving is expected to be delayed until at least next fiscal year, pending state legislature approval for transportation department projects.
What funding has been allocated for the utility relocation project?
The Shreveport City Council approved $4.4 million in funding from the American Rescue Plan Act for utility relocation under Ford Street.
How much has been allocated by the DOTD for the Ford Street repair project?
The Louisiana DOTD has allocated $750,000 for the Ford Street repair project, with estimated total costs ranging between $1 million to $1.2 million.
What type of work will DOTD perform on Ford Street?
The work will consist of an overlay project, meaning that old asphalt will be milled off and replaced with new material.
Key Features of Ford Street Project
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Utility Relocation Completion | Completed by city to prepare for repaving. |
| Funding Allocated | $4.4 million from American Rescue Plan Act approved by city council. |
| DOTD Allocation | $750,000 allocated, total costs estimated at $1-1.2 million. |
| Projected Start Date | Not until at least next fiscal year, pending state approval. |
| Type of Work | Overlay project to mill and replace old asphalt. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Lane Closures on Knight Street for Reconstruction in Shreveport
Shreveport Water and Sewerage Director Resigns
Knight Street Reconstruction to Begin Soon in Shreveport
Shreveport Starts Construction on Knight Street Southbound Lane
Knight Street Reconstruction Progresses in Shreveport
Shreveport Moves Forward with Ford Street Repaving
Exciting New Plans Unveiled for Kings Highway Revitalization in Shreveport
Additional Resources
- Shreveport Bossier Advocate
- Wikipedia: Shreveport
- KSLA News
- Google Search: Ford Street Shreveport
- KTAL News
- Google Scholar: Shreveport infrastructure
- The Center Square
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Shreveport
- Shreveport Bossier Advocate – Hotel Project
- Google News: Shreveport city council
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.
