Shreveport water system's 'F' rating revised to a 'D' by Louisiana Department of Health

• Shreveport's 2024 water grade was revised by the Louisiana Department of Health from an "F" to a "D" after a miscalculation.
• The need for capital improvements to water storage tanks is the primary reason for the low grade.
• Construction on these improvements has begun, but full completion is not expected until late 2026.

The Louisiana Department of Health has revised Shreveport's 2024 water grade.

According to the Shreveport Department of Water and Sewerage, LDH has revised the city's water score from 55 to 65 — improving the grade from an "F" to a "D." The water department said this was after a miscalculation was identified.

The water department continued by stating while a "D" remains below standard, it is committed to achieving a higher score. The primary factor for this low grade continues to be the need for capital improvements at four elevated and two ground-water storage tanks.

Design work for these upgrades is complete, and construction has begun. The water department stated that these projects have been carefully phased to maintain uninterrupted service. Full completion is not expected until late 2026.

“We want our community to know that we take this process seriously,” said interim Water and Sewerage Director Brandon Snead. “The revised grade is a step in the right direction, but it doesn’t change the fact that we have more work to do. What’s important is that the funding is secured, the designs are complete, and the boots are on the ground. These are major infrastructure projects across a large, aging system, and we want to be realistic that this work will take time. This is a long-term effort, and we’re committed to seeing it through.”

According to the water department, Shreveport is continuing conversations with LDH regarding aspects of the grading system and how it accounts for ongoing, multi-year improvements to infrastructure.

Makenzie Boucher is a reporter with the Shreveport Times. Contact her at mboucher@gannett.com.