Shreveport Common announced it has committed $1,000 toward the installation of a security camera in Asian Gardens as part of the Re-Invigorate Asian Gardens project.

Organization officials said they plan to work alongside the Downtown Development Authority and additional partners to help fund three more cameras in locations identified by nearby residents and business owners.

According to the organization, the initiative is aimed at helping deter crime and improve safety in the Shreveport Common and downtown areas while supporting ongoing public safety efforts by the Shreveport Police Department and the Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office through the Anglin/Myers Public Safety Initiative.

Located at 800 Texas Avenue at the corner of Common and Milam streets, Asian Gardens was created in 2006 by the ASEANA Foundation to celebrate the cultures of its members’ 15 Asian homelands through themed garden beds, artwork and cultural festivals.

Officials said the gardens have experienced deterioration over the years due to severe weather, tree disease, aging infrastructure, irrigation and lighting issues, and vandalism. While the city and SPAR have continued regular cleanup and landscaping efforts, organizers say additional restoration work is needed to preserve and revitalize the space.

As part of the Re-Invigorate Asian Gardens project, Shreveport Common, SPAR and volunteers with the Shreveport Common Think Tank plan to repair irrigation and lighting systems, remove and replace dead trees, repair rotted wood, install additional cameras, replace banners and create signage for self-guided tours.

Project leaders also said they hope to introduce new programming, events and volunteer opportunities aimed at restoring the gardens as a cultural and educational destination for the community.

More information is available online: shreveportcommon.com/asian-gardens