Shreveport Council addresses downtown safety and drag racing concerns

Concerns over public safety in downtown Shreveport took center stage at the Public Safety Committee meeting on March 26, 2025, as community members and city officials discussed rising crime rates and proactive measures to enhance security. Business owner and lifelong resident, Miss Holden, expressed her deep worries about the recent violence, particularly a shooting incident that occurred in the early hours of the morning. “I’m more concerned about the crimes and the shootings and the loss of life in downtown,” she stated, emphasizing the need for immediate action.

In response to the violence, Holden revealed that she had coordinated with the Shreveport Police Department (SPD) to deploy additional officers in the downtown area during peak hours. “We had two officers that we paid for in front of Hayes and two in front of Royalty,” she noted, highlighting her commitment to ensuring safety in the community.

The meeting also touched on the legality of medical marijuana use in public spaces, with discussions clarifying that while it is legal to smoke medical marijuana with a valid card, the specifics of public consumption remain nuanced. This topic, while secondary, reflects the broader concerns about public safety and community standards.

Additionally, the committee addressed issues of cruising and drag racing in public parks, particularly at Ford Park and Lakeshore Strip. Councilwoman Taylor urged for proactive measures to combat the increasing frequency of these activities, which have become a growing concern for residents.

As the meeting concluded, the call for collaboration between community members and law enforcement was clear. “We want to work together with SPD to make Downtown Shreveport and all of Shreveport a safe place,” Holden affirmed, echoing the sentiments of many present. The discussions signal a pivotal moment for Shreveport as it seeks to reclaim its downtown area as a safe and vibrant space for all residents.