By Stacey Tinsley, Bossier Press-Tribune
Regional business leaders and local officials gathered Thursday, Oct. 15, at Sam’s Town Casino in Shreveport for the Moving Northwest Louisiana Forward: Transportation, Connectivity & Infrastructure Symposium, an event focused on transportation priorities and infrastructure needs across the region.
The symposium was presented by the Bossier Chamber of Commerce in partnership with the Greater Shreveport Chamber of Commerce and the Shreveport-Bossier African American Chamber of Commerce. It was part of the Bossier Chamber’s Public Policy Series, which connects the regional business community with state and federal elected and appointed officials.
Transportation infrastructure plays an important role in economic competitiveness, workforce mobility and regional growth. The event brought together state, regional and local leaders to discuss transportation planning, funding opportunities, connectivity and major projects affecting Northwest Louisiana.
Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development Secretary Glenn Ledet provided a statewide perspective on transportation, including infrastructure priorities, funding outlook and major projects affecting the region.
Northwest Louisiana Council of Governments Executive Director Kent Rogers discussed regional planning, mobility, connectivity and long-term transportation priorities, including potential funding opportunities.
The program also featured a local infrastructure panel with Bossier City Engineer Andy Bajnauth, Shreveport City Engineer David Smith, Bossier Parish Engineer Eric Hudson and Caddo Parish Public Works Director Tim Weaver.
The panel provided an opportunity to address transportation and infrastructure issues from the perspectives of the two cities and surrounding parishes. Attendees also had an opportunity to ask questions of the speakers and panelists following the discussion.
The symposium highlighted the importance of coordination among state, regional and local agencies as Northwest Louisiana considers transportation improvements and infrastructure investments that support residents, businesses and future development.