Rep. Jackson Applauds $9.6M Hearne Ave Repairs, Urges DOTD to Prioritize Remaining Portion

SHREVEPORT, La. – State Representative Steven Jackson (District 2) is excited that construction on the long-awaited Highway 171 (Hearne Avenue) repair project will officially begin Friday, October 4, 2025. The $9.6 million project represents a major step forward in addressing one of Shreveport’s most deteriorated corridors.

“This project has been a top priority for my office because Hearne Avenue is a critical route for residents, businesses, and first responders,” said Rep. Jackson. “I want to thank House and Senate and Governor Landry for agreeing during our 2024 session to put $340 million statewide of one-time surplus funds for shovel-ready road projects that have been identified as state priorities but didn’t have the funding to move forward."

While applauding the investment, Jackson also stressed the importance of completing the reaming 3 mile stretch of Hearne Avenue to avoid leaving residents frustrated by unfinished work.

“Residents have waited long enough for Hearne to be fully repaired. Beginning this project is a major win, but we cannot stop halfway. I am urging DOTD to make the remaining portions of Hearne Avenue north of Greenwood Road up to Ford Street a part of this year’s Highway Priority Program so that the entire corridor receives the attention it deserves.

Jackson emphasized that failing to address the full length of Hearne Avenue would undermine the progress being made and continue to burden residents with unsafe driving conditions.

“We have a responsibility to finish the job. Paving part of Hearne while leaving the other side in disrepair is like fixing half a roof and leaving the rest leaking. The people of Shreveport deserve better than that” Jackson said.

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