South Monroe residents are invited to attend a series of community meetings organized by the Southside Economic Development District (SEDD) to provide input and gather feedback on the potential model neighborhood selections. These meetings aim to engage the local community in shaping the future development of the Southside through a 25-year project known as the “Southside Dream.”
Over the next two weeks, three neighborhood meetings will take place at various locations in South Monroe. The first meeting will be held on July 8 at 4 p.m. in the St. James United Methodist Church. The second meeting is scheduled for July 10 at 6 p.m. in the Rose of Sharon Baptist Church. A third meeting will be held on July 13th at 6 p.m. at the Emily P. Robinson Community Center.
The last meeting will be on July 27 at 6 p.m. before the NAACP general meeting, also scheduled for the Emily P. Robinson Center at 6 p.m.
The model neighborhoods, each encompassing approximately 5 blocks, will be located in one of the three Southside City Council Districts. SEDD aims to develop these neighborhoods as real-time examples of what the Southside could potentially look like in the next 25 years.
Roosevelt Wright Jr., chairman of the Safe Neighborhood and Crime Reduction subcommittee of SEDD, explained that the model neighborhoods would resemble subdivisions, complete with modern amenities such as covered ditches, underground utilities, solar-paneled homes, extensive lighting, parks, and a community policing facility. The purpose of these developments is to offer residents a tangible vision of the future possibilities for South Monroe.
SEDD President Tony Little emphasized that the organization’s goal is to create a comprehensive plan and utilize all available resources to execute it effectively. He pointed out that the revitalization of South Monroe is a significant undertaking, estimated to cost over $500 million. Currently, the city lacks a major plan focused on reviving the area, instead focusing on drainage-related infrastructure projects and sporadic renovation of city facilities without an overarching strategy.
SEDD has already identified three neighborhoods for consideration but will make the final decision based on community input received during these meetings. Once adjustments have been made based on public feedback, SEDD consultants will begin working on the necessary plans to secure capital outlay and other funds required for the project.
Residents of South Monroe are encouraged to attend community meetings to voice their opinions, suggestions, and concerns regarding the model neighborhood selections. These meetings offer a valuable opportunity for community members to actively shape the future development of their neighborhood and contribute to the revitalization efforts of South Monroe as a whole.
