Governor Landry Vetoes Key Shreveport Projects, Prompting Outcry from Local Leaders 

By: D.D. Reese
Published July 13, 2025

Several major projects intended to benefit the Shreveport region were vetoed this week by Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry, drawing sharp criticism from local lawmakers and civic leaders who say the cuts will delay infrastructure improvements and community revitalization efforts.

The vetoes, issued as part of Landry’s review of the state’s capital outlay and budget allocations, removed funding for multiple Shreveport-area initiatives. These include a significant bridge repair project in south Shreveport, the expansion of a community health center in Caddo Parish, and investments in downtown revitalization and cultural programming.

Local legislators were quick to respond. State Senator Alan Seabaugh, a key proponent of several of the vetoed items, felt the move was "deeply disappointing” and said the governor’s actions will set back progress on essential infrastructure and public health needs. Seabaugh expressed that these projects were not just wish-list items but were vital to public safety, access to care, and economic development.

Governor Landry defended the vetoes as necessary for fiscal discipline. In a written statement, the governor said the state budget must reflect “statewide priorities over localized spending,” and noted that the vetoed items would have required further evaluation or represented expenditures beyond what the state could afford this cycle.

Supporters of the vetoes argue the budget should focus on broad, sustainable growth and not cater to individual legislative districts. But critics warn that the move may disproportionately hurt regions like Shreveport, which already face economic and infrastructure challenges.

Community advocates and city officials are now exploring alternative funding options, including federal grants and public-private partnerships. There is also growing momentum among lawmakers to reintroduce the projects in future legislative sessions or override the vetoes if possible.

“These projects are too important to abandon,” said Caddo Parish Commissioner Steven Jackson. “We will continue to fight for the resources Shreveport deserves.”

As the fallout continues, local leaders say they plan to rally public support and continue pressing for the restoration of funding to ensure the region does not fall further behind.