The City of Shreveport and the Housing Authority of the City of Shreveport were awarded a $24.2 million FY2017 Choice Neighborhoods Implementation Grant for the Allendale, Ledbetter Heights, and West Edge neighborhoods. A once thriving arts and music district, the target neighborhoods experienced sharp population decline in the 1970s. Today, the neighborhoods are challenged with high vacancy rates and limited opportunities for economic advancement. Within the target area was Naomi Jackson Heights, an isolated public housing development that was demolished in 2006. While two phases of the housing replacement have been completed, the Choice Neighborhoods Implementation Grant will allow the City of Shreveport, the Housing Authority of the City of Shreveport, and partners to create additional housing along the downtown’s core – drawing new investment westward into the target neighborhoods. Complementary investments will be made through a variety of economic development activities and supports to residents in the areas of health, education, and employment. Volunteers of America of North and Central Louisiana is one of the key development partners for the redevelopment.  Click here to learn more about the FY-2017 CNI Awardees.