Gateway to the Red project to beautify through trees, plants and landscaping

The Greater Shreveport Chamber of Commerce’s (GSCC) Leadership Program Class of 2017 is rolling up their sleeves and literally digging into community service. The Leadership group is kicking off Gateway to the Red (GR), a community beautification project aimed at revitalizing the section of Shreveport’s downtown riverfront across from SciPort. The goal of the project is to plant approximately 50 trees and create a scenic garden with native plants on Clyde Fant Parkway along an area of the jogging path.

By focusing on the jogging trail, the project promotes healthy lifestyles and increased quality of life by providing a safe, comfortable area to jog, run or bike along the Red River. It also lays a foundation for future beautification projects by raising awareness within the community of the needs along the riverfront and encouraging others to give back through similar enhancement projects.

"Projects like this that focus on place-making are an important part of the further development of our city. The scope of the Gateway to the Red project will complement the work and focus already under way within our downtown area." Dr. Timothy Magner, president of the GSCC, says.

"Based on the ongoing renovations and the anticipated opening of the Shreveport Aquarium, coupled with the changes coming to the Sci Port Discovery Center, we expect that area of downtown to have an increase in attention and foot traffic from both locals as well as out-of-town visitors," said Thomas Presley, 2017 Greater Shreveport Leadership Program Class participant.

The site was recommended because it ties into and builds on the construction of the green space and amphitheater along the Red River.

The Leadership Class hopes to continue to expand the project throughout the fall, including exploring K-12 educational programs, building partnerships with local environmentally focused non-profits that aim to engage both students and members of the community in the history and present-day amenities the riverfront offers.

For additional information, contact the Greater Shreveport Chamber of Commerce at (318)-677-2500.