Wednesday, April 23, 2008

Home Improvement Project Awards 2008

HAP announces the 2008 Home Improvement Program. Ten awards of up to $500 each are available this year. Applications may be obtained through the HAP web site, at the HAP office located at Centenary Square, or at Lila’s Cakes and Chocolates at 440 Olive Street.

Property owners and residents may submit an application outlining plans for significant, highly visible home improvements to their property. Only homes within the boundaries of the neighborhood will be considered. This includes the area south of I-20, east of Southern Avenue, west of Youree Drive, and north of Kings Highway. Among other things, judges will consider overall benefit to the neighborhood and prior improvements to the property(s). Deadline for submission is May 23, 2008. Applicants must agree to complete their work and submit receipts no later than August 31, 2008. Awards will be paid on a reimbursement basis after work is entirely complete, receipts have been submitted, and work/receipts are reviewed.


The contest was created in 1996 as part of HAP’s mission to aid in revitalization of Shreveport’s historic Highland neighborhood. In the 12 years since, the organization has distributed 81 awards totaling more than $40,000. The awards have helped with everything from landscape to major repairs. The organizers have noticed a change in the type and scope of the projects since then. “In the beginning, we had requests for general maintenance. Now, we have people wishing to complete large scale changes,” said HAP Committee Chair Kenneth Koonce. The organization attributes this to fact that people are rediscovering the charm of historic Highland. “We have it all! Charming, well-built homes with established landscape, trendy boutiques and delicious restaurants are right around the corner. Plus, you have a safe, friendly, and pedestrian-oriented area,” Koonce added.