Historically, Shreveport was a major producer of oil in the United States, however in the 1980s, the oil industry in Shreveport faced an economic downturn, and and most companies suffered cutbacks and ultimately went out of business.
Today the city has largely transitioned to a service economy. In particular, the area has seen a rapid growth in the gaming industry, hosting various riverboat gambling casinos, and is second only to New Orleans in Louisiana tourism. A new 350,000 square-foot convention center was recently completed in downtown Shreveport with an 800 space parking garage. An adjoining 12-story Hilton Hotel was recently completed and opened in early June 2007. Shreveport has also started a film industry with its very own sound stage and the largest wave pool for movie production.
General Motors has established a large plant in Shreveport. The Shreveport plant manufactures the Hummer H3 SUV, and the Chevy Colorado and GMC Canyon trucks. |