The Caddo-Bossier Parishes Port Commission recently announced the election of officers to lead the Port for the upcoming year, bringing fresh perspectives and strategic plans to further enhance the region’s economic development.

Bill Altimus, the former Bossier Parish Administrator, has been elected as the new President of the Commission. Altimus, who joined the Caddo-Bossier Port Commission in 2019, represents Bossier City and is enthusiastic about the Port’s continued role in Northwest Louisiana’s economy.

“The Port of Caddo-Bossier continues to play an important role in the economy of Northwest Louisiana,” said President Bill Altimus. “I look forward to working with the other Port commissioners and the Port team to continue growing our footprint and creating more jobs and economic opportunities for the area.”

Joining Altimus in the leadership team is Joshua K. Williams, the new Vice President, representing the City of Shreveport since 2021. Additionally, retired Judge Stephen V. Callaway, the newest commission member since November, has been appointed as the Secretary/Treasurer, representing the Caddo Parish Commission.

Vice President Joshua K. Williams emphasized the Port’s expected vital role in the region’s economic development, citing upcoming projects such as new warehouses, tenants, and infrastructure initiatives.

“In my two months on the commission, I have learned the importance of The Port to the area’s economy,” said retired Judge Stephen Callaway. “With the help of economic development partners like North Louisiana Economic Partnership, BRF, Greater Bossier Economic Development Foundation, we are helping to create jobs and opportunities at both The Port and throughout Caddo and Bossier Parishes.”

The Port of Caddo-Bossier is currently involved in three major projects aimed at benefiting both current and future tenants. These projects include the Bossier City Waterline, the I-69 Service Road, and the construction of a new heavy-load warehouse.

Construction crews are actively working on laying pipes for the Bossier City Waterline, extending from Bossier City to the undeveloped west side of The Port campus. Simultaneously, design work is underway for the I-69 Service Road, which will provide a direct route for commercial traffic heading north on I-49.

The construction of a new 40,000-square-foot heavy-load warehouse is also in progress, with funding from The Port, Red River Waterway Commission, and the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development.

The Port of Caddo-Bossier, spanning 4,000 acres, stands at the head of navigation on the Red River Waterway. As an inland multi-modal transportation and distribution center, it plays a crucial role in connecting customers throughout the Ark-La-Tex region to domestic and international markets via the Mississippi River and the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway. With these strategic initiatives and dedicated leadership, the Port is poised for continued growth and economic success in the coming years.