A new billboard popping up across Shreveport in multiple locations.
by Rhiannon Venable, ShrevePossible
Recently, you might have noticed a string of billboards popping up around town with the declaration of a specific business or even the ambiguous “I” loving Shreveport. However, what has caused the rise of these signs? Who, ultimately, is responsible for this campaign?
Lamar, the advertising company, had put up the original billboard on Spring Street about five weeks ago. When asked about the motivation for this campaign, April Eskew at Lamar said, “When my general manager had met Mayor Arceneaux previously, he (Mayor Arceneaux) gave him a button that said ‘I heart Shreveport,’ and he asked one of the ladies in the office (…) to order a vinyl that would look like this.” Having seen the original billboard, others decided to get involved.
The billboard’s original placement on Spring Street
To spread more positivity about Shreveport, Kristi Gustavson, CEO of the Community Foundation of North Louisiana has coordinated the involvement of local businesses. Those who participate get to advertise their logo on the billboard while spreading a positive message for the city. Businesses participating in this campaign include Foster Orthodontics, Sportspectrum, LSU Shreveport, BRF, North Louisiana Economic Partnership, among others. At least fifteen businesses in the city have joined the campaign.
Citizens of all ages have noticed the signs and even expressed gratitude for them. When asked about the campaign, Christina Bartlett, a young barista at one of our many local coffee shops, said, “I think it’s cool. It’s nice to see something positive about our town.”
While supporting local businesses, the billboard campaign also helps with tourism. At this time of year, many people are traveling to and from various destinations for spring break. Lisa, a tourist passing through on her way to Minneapolis, even took note of the billboards on the side of I-49. When asked about her feelings when she saw the billboard, she said, “It makes you feel like you’re somewhere people want to live. Times are tough for everyone, but if you still feel this way about your home, things can’t be so bad.”
While not affiliated with Mayor Arceneaux, the “I love Shreveport” billboard campaign was inspired by a simple button he gives to people upon meeting them. However, the spark has grown into a flame, and now local businesses are advertising how they also love Shreveport. Spreading positivity not only to the citizens of this city but also to passersby, the billboard campaign has proven successful in shining a light on Shreveport.
