Every day, I am forced to cautiously navigate around loose rocks, enormous potholes, and uneven road surfaces just to reach the highway from my home in rural Shreveport, LA. As if that weren't challenging enough, a massive dirt pit at the end of my road is incapable of supporting the frequent heavy dump trucks racing over it, worsening the damage. Our roads, already in disrepair, are hastily filled with loose gravel that makes driving treacherous, especially when it rains or the trucks return.

Unfortunately, this is not just my problem. Many residents in our rural communities are facing the same hazardous conditions. According to the Rapides Parish Planning Commission, over 30% of rural roads in Louisiana are in poor condition, affecting the safety and livelihoods of thousands of us. These roads are integral for daily commutes, school buses, emergency services, and agricultural trade.

The current stopgap measures are simply not enough. We need comprehensive road refurbishment that replaces loose gravel with durable materials and employs skilled workmanship to ensure these roads are safe and long-lasting. Such improvements would not only enhance safety for residents but also support economic growth by ensuring reliable transportation routes.

We call on the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development and local government officials to prioritize and allocate necessary funding and resources towards repairing our rural roads in Shreveport and its surrounding regions.

By signing this petition, you are lending your voice to demand that our government act responsibly and urgently. We deserve roads that reflect the pride and care of our community. Please, join me in calling for immediate action to make real changes in our infrastructure. Sign this petition today and be part of the solution for our community's safety and prosperity.