La. Mayor Makes His Pitch

According to the study prepared by consultant M3A Architecture, Monroe – which lies about 100 miles east of Shreveport, La., and has a metropolitan statistical area population of 177,000 – could support a 9,000- to 10,000-seat arena.

A new venue could provide stimulus for more growth in the city and host high-profile entertainment and sports events.

And the study spared no adjectives in saying so.

“Our experience tells us that for the best return on its investment in this instance, Monroe may wish to consider the new arena as an anchor to, and as part of, a larger vibrant, lively new cultural, recreational, entertainment and retail destination centered around a memorable, enduring, attractive, pedestrian-friendly outdoor place,” the study says.

A potential project would cost nearly $84 million.

A number of locations in the city were identified as potential sites, and an arena appears to have the backing of several economic districts.