HAUGHTON, LA – Leaders Hope For Business Boom Following Highway 157 Expansion
As Haughton, Louisiana, continues to witness significant growth, local officials are eager to enhance infrastructure facilities to sustain this promising evolution. The anticipated expansion of state Highway 157 is being viewed as the key solution to handle the increased vehicular traffic and attract more businesses to the thriving town.
State Highway 157 Expansion Approved
State Highway 157, currently a two-lane road, has secured funding for expansion approved by the Legislature. In just over a year, the road is expected to transform into a five-lane highway. This considerable enhancement is expected to significantly improve transportation in the town and open up new possibilities for business.
Major Commercial Expansion Underway
“We’re most excited about these two projects coming together now, phase 1 and phase 2, as it’s going to allow for 70 acres of commercial development to take place in our town,” said Haughton Mayor Kim Gaspard. She also highlighted potential establishments that residents could expect to see in the near future, which includes a major grocery store, a pharmacy, and eateries.
The town has witnessed a remarkable growth of 33% over the last decade. State representatives have emphasized the importance of such infrastructural projects to keep up with the town’s ongoing evolution.
Accelerated Sales Tax Revenue Anticipated
The completion of the highway project holds significant potential for the region. State Sen. Adam Bass said that it would “turn on the sales tax revenue that is needed desperately for this town to continue to grow and provide the services that are needed”. Indeed, the project is not just about facilitating smoother commutation, but it’s also a gateway to financial growth for the town.
Additional Funding Allocated for Infrastructure Improvement
The total cost of the project is estimated to be around $11 million. Moreover, the town of Haughton has managed to secure an additional $450,000 through House Bill 782 to make substantial improvements to the streets and drainage, and also for procuring equipment for the town’s fire and police departments.
Town leaders are even hoping the expansion will attract hotel businesses to the region, further bolstering the town’s commerce and making it an enticing prospect for potential residents.
Future Prospects
With the forthcoming highway expansion, the leaders of Haughton are visibly hopeful about the town’s future. As a tangible promise of economic vitality looms ahead, the expansion of State Highway 157 is certainly more than just another infrastructural development – it’s a testament to the vision and commitment of the town’s leadership.