During its regular meeting on Wednesday, December 3, the Bossier Parish Police Jury approved the parish’s 2026 operating budget, outlining significant investments aimed at improving transportation, drainage, and critical public facilities.
While routine operating expenses remain part of the annual plan, this year’s budget heavily emphasizes long-term infrastructure projects designed to support growth and enhance services throughout the parish.
Transportation improvements make up a substantial portion of the newly adopted budget. More than $30 million has been allocated for roadwork, traffic upgrades, and major corridor improvements.
The largest project—the long-planned East/West Corridor—will receive $17.5 million for continued design work, surveys, and right-of-way acquisition. A significant portion of this funding will come from federal sources.
Additional traffic and road improvements include:
$1.3 million for a Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development–funded traffic study on Highway 157 in Haughton
$4.5 million for capacity upgrades on Bobby Byrd Road, Frank Staton Road, and the addition of a new turn lane at Airline Drive and Swan Lake Road
Drainage improvements in the Espanita subdivision, funded through the Louisiana Watershed Initiative, totaling $2 million
Police Jury President Glenn Benton noted that improving traffic flow, expanding major roadways, and enhancing drainage systems are essential steps for the parish’s ongoing development and overall safety.
The 2026 budget also includes major upgrades to essential parish facilities. To ensure the courthouse remains operational during emergency outages, two 750-kilowatt generators will be installed. The project—valued at $1.8 million—is funded through FEMA and expected to be completed within the year.
Other facility improvements approved in the budget include:
- Replacement of the 21-year-old automation system that controls HVAC and security functions at parish facilities ($1.5–$2 million)
- A $1.5 million plumbing overhaul at the Maximum-Security Jail to improve water control and prevent leaks
- Window repairs and various renovations across parish buildings, bringing total capital improvements to approximately $6.2 million
These upgrades aim to strengthen operational reliability, improve security, and protect public assets.
Parish officials emphasized that the 2026 budget reflects both immediate needs and long-term priorities. With substantial investment in transportation, drainage, and facilities, the plan aims to prepare Bossier Parish for continued growth while maintaining the services and infrastructure residents depend on.
The newly adopted budget positions the parish to move forward on several transformative projects, ensuring safer roads, stronger facilities, and increased resilience across the community.