Caddo school closures, SPD squatter operation, and road projects with Mayor Arceneaux

SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS) – In his weekly Thursday morning visit to our studio, Shreveport Mayor Tom Arceneaux weighed in on several key issues impacting the city, from school closures to squatter enforcement and long-term roadwork.

The mayor began by addressing the Caddo Parish School Board’s recent decision to close three early learning institutions. While acknowledging the emotional toll on families and communities, Arceneaux emphasized the difficulty of such choices and said he respects the school board’s autonomy. “It is always difficult to close a school… I just think we have to trust the school board to do what they believe is right,” he said.

Mayor Arceneaux also spoke about the city’s largest effort yet under Operation Ask Blue, an initiative aimed at cracking down on illegal squatters. The operation recently targeted 50 properties, primarily in the Highland neighborhood, and resulted in multiple arrests. He confirmed more operations are planned across the city and encouraged residents to report suspicious activity by calling (318) 673-7300 and selecting option three.

When asked by viewers about the city’s long-term construction projects, Mayor Arceneaux provided updates on the much-anticipated Linwood Overpass. The project, estimated at $6 million, is currently in the design phase. The city has already allocated $3 million from bond funds and is seeking additional funding for capital outlay. “We have work going on with 43 of the 46 projects from our $88 million bond sale. Several should break ground in 2025, with even more activity in 2026,” he said.

Mayor Arceneaux is scheduled to return next Tuesday with more updates on Shreveport’s progress.