Shreveport kicks off phase 2 of 'Block by Block' Initiative
SHREVEPORT, La. — Shreveport is moving into the second phase of its "Block by Block" initiative, committing between $2.5 million and $3 million toward major infrastructure and community projects in the Highland and Mooretown neighborhoods, Mayor Tom Arceneaux announced Wednesday.
SHREVEPORT, La. — Shreveport is moving into the second phase of its "Block by Block" initiative, committing between $2.5 million and $3 million toward major infrastructure and community projects in the Highland and Mooretown neighborhoods, Mayor Tom Arceneaux announced Wednesday.
The expansion marks a shift from the program's initial cleanup focus to long-term, visible city investments based on direct feedback from residents.
"'Block by Block' was never intended to be a one-time cleanup effort," Arceneaux said. "Phase 2 is about taking that next step — making targeted investments that improve safety, strengthen neighborhoods, and give residents confidence that progress is continuing."
In the Highland neighborhood, construction has already commenced on a series of walkability and safety improvements. The work is concentrated along Highland Avenue, Creswell Avenue, Gilbert Drive, and Centenary Boulevard between Olive Street and Kings Highway.
Planned improvements for the area include:
- Sidewalks: Repairing, extending, and connecting existing paths.
- Accessibility: Constructing ADA-compliant curb cuts.
- Roadways: Restriping intersections and bike lanes.
- Visibility: Working with SWEPCO to repair and upgrade streetlights.
To minimize neighborhood disruption, construction will be staggered, moving one street at a time. City officials expect the Highland improvements to be completed by the end of 2026.
The city is also beginning the planning phase to revitalize the former Mooretown Elementary School. Officials are currently working with the Caddo Parish School Board to secure a lease for the facility.
The redevelopment will focus on converting the school's former cafeteria and auditorium into a permanent senior center and community meeting facility. The space is intended to host senior services, community programs, and local meetings.
A specific construction schedule for the Mooretown project will be announced following the completion of design and planning work.
Phase 2 builds on the momentum of the "clean sweeps" conducted throughout 2025. During the first phase, more than 300 volunteers and city departments targeted 11 areas, resulting in the removal of:
- 1,936 tons of litter, debris, and illegally dumped material.
- 2,758 discarded tires.
The Highland and Mooretown projects are the first of several large-scale investments planned under the initiative, with additional projects currently in development for 2027 and 2028.