Shreveport Approves $2 Million Makeover for Monkhouse Drive

Shreveport will be making some serious changes to a road that is often called the gateway to our community. The condition of Monkhouse Drive has been criticized for years by many folks who visit our city and those who live here.

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The area looks run down. But the city is taking bold steps to spruce things up. Monkhouse Drive is about to undergo a major transformation. The city has announced plans for a $2 million project that will completely reimagine the corridor, turning it into a more welcoming gateway for visitors arriving at Shreveport Regional Airport.

Gateway to Shreveport

For decades, Monkhouse Drive has been the first stop for thousands of travelers entering Shreveport. City officials admit the current condition of the roadway has not always provided the best first impression. Many say the area just feels uninviting. Leaders hope to change that.

Funding for Monkhouse Improvements

This project is estimated to cost $2 million dollars. The money for this project comes from a bond issue approved by Shreveport voters. This new roadway will include a median and landscaping to make the area more eye appealing.

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Mayor Tom Arceneaux says the roadway plan is being called a "road diet". That means one of the lanes will be taken away to be used for the green space and beautification effort. But he does not think this will have a major impact because Monkhouse is not a very heavily trafficked area.

The project is expected to also include decorative lighting and signage that clearly marks the entrance to Shreveport.