Shreveport, La. - For the first time since the '90's, downtown Shreveport will host a huge block party.

National Night Out kicks off in downtown Shreveport Oct. 7. The annual Fall event returns to Texas Street, echoing block parties and “Neon Saturday Night” celebrations that drew crowds downtown in the 1990s.

Police and city leaders say the move highlights downtown as a real neighborhood — and an opportunity to shift old perceptions.

“The perception has been that downtown isn’t safe, but the reality is it’s one of the safest places in Shreveport,” said Cedric Glover, Downtown Development Authority executive director.

Shreveport Police Chief Wayne Smith emphasized that downtown is more populated than many realize.

“We were told just yesterday that in excess of 1,200 people live downto

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