State Representative Pat Moore has announced a major step forward in the effort to breathe new life into Monroe’s Wilson Street area and the surrounding Southside neighborhoods.
Standing before community leaders and residents at the Louisiana Purchase Gardens & Zoo, Moore revealed that $850,000 in funding has been secured through House Bill 460, a product of Louisiana’s recent appropriations session. The funds are designated for infrastructure improvements, housing and community development in the Bryant’s Addition neighborhood, stretching from Wilson Street to Marx Street.
The funding will provide $800,000 for new housing in the area that will be built by Ron Calhoun Construction. Another $50,000 will be granted to Calhoun’s non-profit to assist families.
The City of Monroe will be functioning as the pass-through organization to see the project through.
Moore says in the function other contractors and stakeholders will be utilized to help make the dream happen.
“This is a community effort, and it will take all of us working together,” Moore told the crowd gathered for the announcement. “We have to believe this is possible.”
The funding represents a portion of a $10 million vision Moore is championing to restore the heart of South Monroe. Her ultimate goal is to build 40 new homes in the Wilson Street area at a cost of $8 million, while dedicating $2 million to the renovation of existing homes — all without displacing longtime residents.
“I lay in bed at night and I talk to God about this,” Moore said, her voice charged with emotion. “I tell Him I need help to make this happen.”
Moore’s dream is not just about houses — it’s about restoring community pride. She spoke openly about her desire to create opportunities for first-time homebuyers, especially those who might not qualify for traditional financing. The project aims to fill that critical financing gap and ensure residents can own homes in safe, thriving neighborhoods.
At the heart of her plan is collaboration. Moore plans to assemble a coalition of stakeholders — investors, elected officials, the Southside Economic Development District (SEDD), and community leaders — to tour the neighborhood and chart a path forward for funding, partnerships, and long-term improvements.
“The Bryant’s Addition neighborhood matters to us,” Moore said. “My family lived here. The history of this community matters.”
During her remarks, Moore acknowledged several key partners, including State Senator Katrina Jackson-Andrews, Representative Adrian Fisher, Mayor Friday Ellis, and members of the Monroe City Council, all of whom attended the announcement. She also gave special recognition to Ron Calhoun, whose nonprofit helped secure the funding, and Ellen Hill, a local advocate.
Moore called for a community-wide commitment — not just to construction and renovation, but to transforming mindsets. She challenged residents to pick up trash, take pride in their streets, and believe in the potential of South Monroe.
“It’s a big dream,” Moore said. “But all dreams start with people who believe — and a handful of folks on fire to make it happen.”
The revitalization effort stands as a beacon of hope for the Southside, promising not just new homes, but renewed pride and a better future for generations to come.
