“We’re excited about the progress we’re making in Monroe and the positive impact these projects will have on our community and the surrounding region. From revitalizing Downtown Monroe to improving infrastructure and expanding recreational spaces, every step we take is focused on making Monroe a better place for everyone. These projects are all about building a stronger, more connected community that will benefit our residents, future generations, and Northeast Louisiana as whole. For a closer look at the progress we are making in Monroe, check out oneroe.city.” – Mayor Friday Ellis
Downtown
In 2021, the City of Monroe launched the Downtown Strategic Plan, a visionary project focused on revitalizing the area through community engagement and data-driven insights. Spearheaded by Campo Architects, the plan began with Phase I, assessing downtown’s walkability, building conditions, vacancy rates, and pedestrian experiences, while expanding the area of focus to a 25-block region. Community engagement through town halls, surveys, and consultant workshops in Phase II helped define priority projects, while events like Rollin’ on the Riverfront have generated growing support for revitalization. One notable project spawned from this plan is the Desiard Street Project, funded by the Downtown Economic Development District. This initiative is enhancing drainage, updating streetscaping, and making sidewalks ADA accessible in one of Downtown Monroe’s most notable areas, historic Monroe Main Street. While Phase I of the Desiard Street Project is wrapping up, Phase II will begin soon. Spanning the next ten years, the overall Downtown Strategic Plan promises to transform Downtown Monroe into a vibrant, thriving destination, enhancing the city’s unique assets and fostering long-term growth. For a closer look into the Downtown Strategic Plan, visit oneroe.city/downtown.
Passenger Rail
The proposed passenger rail service connecting Dallas, Texas, and Atlanta, Georgia, with a key stop in Monroe, aims to provide affordable transportation and boost economic development in North Louisiana. Supported by a $400,000 Federal Railroad Administration grant and led by the Southern Rail Commission (SRC), the project includes a downtown Monroe terminal and advances regional accessibility, connecting communities from Vicksburg to Shreveport in advocacy efforts, led by the City of Monroe. Monroe, in partnership with Ruston and Shreveport, has applied for a RAISE Grant to fund modern Amtrak terminals. This initiative reflects Monroe’s commitment to improving quality of life, fostering regional collaboration, and creating a brighter, more connected future. To view more information about passenger rail, visit oneroe.city/passenger-rail.
Parks & Rec
The City of Monroe is committed to enhancing community well-being through strategic investments in parks and recreation. In partnership with Carbo Landscape Architecture and Manning Architects, plans were developed to revitalize Forsythe, Chennault, and Charles Johnson parks and upgrade the City’s seven recreation centers based on public feedback. Key improvements include better signage, seating, lighting, and amenities like a splash pad and dog park, along with tailored upgrades for each recreation center.
Monroe has already made progress with projects such as the City’s first ADA accessible and inclusive playground at Harvey H. Benoit Recreation Center, upgraded park furniture featuring city branding, and a major rebranding of the Zoo. Additional initiatives include two vibrant basketball court murals created by local artists, the addition of new pickleball and tennis courts, and a public clubhouse at Forsythe Park. The City’s first streetscape murals are also set to debut in spring 2025. These efforts reflect Monroe’s dedication to creating vibrant, accessible spaces that enrich quality of life for all residents. Projects can be viewed at oneroe.city/rec or oneroe.city/parks.
Music Strategy
In 2023, the City of Monroe partnered with Sound Diplomacy, an international music policy group, to analyze the regional music ecosystem’s impact on the economy in Ouachita Parish. Expanding beyond the City of Monroe to include both urban and rural areas throughout the entire parish, the study explored how music contributes to jobs, businesses, tourism, and cultural identity. The findings emphasized the significant economic and cultural value of music in Northeast Louisiana and offered actionable recommendations, such as establishing a music office or task force, developing a music incubator, and promoting music tourism. These insights highlight opportunities to further strengthen the local music industry and its role in the community’s growth. Results can be viewed at oneroe.city/music.
Infrastructure
The City of Monroe is making significant strides with two transformative infrastructure projects that will enhance both daily life and long-term growth. The city-wide subsurface drainage project has cleaned over 27 miles of pipes and removed nearly 60 truckloads of debris, with Atakapa Services LLC also mapping the entire drainage system as they facilitate the project. This is offering immediate relief to flooding hot spots and reclaiming flow capacity in the floodwater mitigation system. Set to be complete within the next 5 years, this historic cleanout is already making a visible difference in managing water flow, stormwater management, and improving the City’s resilience.
The Kansas Lane Extension, also known as Airport Expressway, recently celebrated the completion of Phase 1 ahead of schedule. This vital project improves traffic flow for both commercial and commuter routes, reducing congestion and enhancing connectivity. As it continues to support Monroe’s growth and economic development, these projects are vital steps in creating a more connected, resilient, and thriving city. For more projects and information, go to oneroe.city/projects.
As Monroe continues to invest in its future, the city’s ongoing projects reflect a clear commitment to growth, revitalization, and the well-being of its residents. From the transformative changes in downtown and improvements to our infrastructure, to enhancing our parks and supporting local music, these efforts are shaping a brighter, more connected community. By engaging residents, fostering collaboration, and focusing on long-term sustainability, Monroe is paving the way for a prosperous future that will benefit generations to come. The City of Monroe is truly on the rise, and the best is yet to come.