Ouachita Business Alliance Quality of Life chair Michael Echols says there are key areas that can broaden quality of life experiences for new and current residents of Ouachita Parish.
"We want to enhance the lives of the citizens of northeast Louisiana," he said. The team has positioned itself to address art, entertainment, public safety, and outdoor recreation opportunities.
Echols, along with co-chair Courtney Hornsby, are developing a branding campaign to create more public awareness. "It's telling our own people the great things that are happening. On top of that, external branding that let's people know outside the area why they should come and visit," said Echols. The group plans to highlight that message at the Monroe Regional Airport for travelers to know more about events and activities.
Development and revitalization projects continue to take place in both downtown Monroe and West Monroe. Other priorities include visual and performing arts tie-ins with OBA, public safety program growth, and creating a one-stop service center to help people transitioning to a job program.
Echols says the team hopes to explore developing a large, multi-purpose sports complex that is capable of hosting a multitude of events.
