The City of Shreveport and the
Housing Authority of the City of Shreveport were awarded a HUD Choice
Neighborhoods Planning Grant in 2011 to develop a Transformation Plan for the
Allendale Ledbetter West Edge neighborhood. Over the next 18 months, the City
and its partners embarked on a robust planning effort to develop a
Transformation Plan that responds to the needs of the community. This included
a resident needs assessment survey, design charrettes, and multiple meetings at
various venues throughout the community.
Over the past five years,
the Community Advisory Board (CAB) has met bimonthly to continue with
implementation. Members include business leaders, public
housing residents, local church leaders, neighborhood associations,
neighborhood schools, and resident stakeholders. In total, the City, the
Housing Authority, and its partners, have sponsored more than ten public
meetings and dozens of neighborhood meetings focused on specific topics or
projects, including arts and culture, education, housing, workforce
development, and health and wellness programs.
Additionally, the City maintains a
robust database of community partners and stakeholders and provides regular
updates on activities via email, public meeting notices, and the Choice Neighborhoods
website. More than 30 community organizations, associations and churches
are engaged. This is supported by the Mayor’s Office and City Council.
If you or your organization would
like to be more involved, and/or attend future meetings, please contact
Candace Higginbotham, Choice Neighborhoods Program Coordinator, at candace.higginbotham@shreveportla.gov.