News Summary
Community members in Shreveport gathered on October 17, 2023, to discuss the I-49 Inner City Connector (ICC) project after 16 years in planning. Concerns about funding, environmental impact, and local neighborhoods dominated the meeting. Alternative route 3A was highlighted, but its future remains uncertain due to rising costs and community opposition. Officials aim to finalize a proposed route in the coming months, while residents express frustration over prolonged delays.
Shreveport Residents Gather to Discuss I-49 Inner City Connector Concerns
Shreveport, Louisiana, recently buzzed with activity as community members came together for a meeting focused on the much-anticipated I-49 Inner City Connector (ICC). Taking place on Tuesday, October 17, 2023, at the Shreveport Convention Center, the session attracted residents eager to learn about the project’s developments and raise their voices about pressing concerns.
What’s Happening with I-49?
The I-49 ICC has been in the planning stage for a staggering 16 years and is still classified as being in Stage One of development. Kent Rogers, the executive director of the North Louisiana Council of Governments (NLCOG), was on hand to lead discussions, shedding light on several important topics regarding the project’s future alongside Adam Driskill, an NLCOG data analyst and regional planner.
During the meeting, attendees were presented with maps showcasing four different proposed routes weaving through central Shreveport. Among these, a fuchsia route known as Alternative 3A emerged as one of the top choices, highlighting a path that many feel could provide a vital corridor through the city. However, the prospect of construction remains clouded with uncertainty due to ongoing concerns regarding federal funding and environmental implications.
Community Concerns and Frustrations
Residents expressed palpable frustration as they voiced their desire for a reliable and quicker route between the northern and southern parts of I-49. Many have long awaited a solution to improve connectivity in the area but are increasingly held back by delays that seem never-ending. A community group known as Allendale Strong has taken a firm stand against the 3.6-mile interstate segment of the proposed connector. The group worries that this project may bring irreversible harm to historically Black neighborhoods and negatively impact several historic sites.
Joan, a concerned local resident, shared her thoughts with others in attendance, highlighting successful urban freeway removals in other cities. The Allendale Strong group also raised alarm about the project’s escalating costs, noting that estimates have surged from a pre-COVID range of $600-$700 million to current projections between $900-$1,100 million.
Funding and Environmental Challenges
A significant hurdle was indicated when discussions turned to funding. The project recently suffered a $120 million hiccup due to measures related to balancing the state budget. While Governor Jeff Landry reassured attendees that funding for I-49 North, I-49 South, and other critical infrastructure projects would be secured, many people remain skeptical about future financial stability.
Rogers highlighted the need for reassessment regarding the Environmental Impact Statement under new federal guidelines, particularly with changes affecting diversity and environmental justice provisions. The project is inching toward a Record of Decision that will finalize which of the proposed routes will move forward.
Looking Ahead
Despite some community support, Mayor Tom Arceneaux has publicly voiced his opposition to Alternative 3A. Concerns persist regarding potential negative effects on economic development and historic properties. Between the uncertainties surrounding funding, environmental approvals, and other complexities, community members and officials alike are bracing for what lies ahead. Rogers anticipates a preferred route might be determined within the next six months, yet additional assessments are likely required to meet evolving federal regulations.
As the meeting wrapped up, residents engaged with transportation officials and examined various presentations and maps. The ongoing discussions served as a reminder of the many challenges that lie ahead as Shreveport aims to navigate this multifaceted project for its future.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Shreveport Celebrates the Launch of Better Louisiana
Shreveport Residents Relief as I-49 Closure Postponed
Bossier City Secures $22.6 Million for Critical Infrastructure Project to Enhance Economic Growth
Shreveport-Bossier City Economy Poised for Significant Growth and Job Creation
Additional Resources
- Shreveport-Bossier Advocate
- KTBS
- KSLA News Video
- Shreveport-Bossier Advocate – New Route
- Wikipedia: Interstate 49
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.
