Designates a portion of Louisiana Highway 371 in Webster Parish as the "John David Crow Memorial Highway"
The enactment of HB 71 will introduce state recognition and memorialization to a section of highway that may foster a sense of pride and remembrance among the local community. By formally designating this highway segment, the bill aims to solidify John David Crow's memory within the fabric of local culture and history. The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) is mandated to oversee the erection and maintenance of the signage; however, the financial responsibility falls on local or private sources to cover the actual costs involved.
House Bill 71 aims to designate a specific portion of Louisiana Highway 371 located in Webster Parish as the 'John David Crow Memorial Highway'. This action serves as a tribute to John David Crow, a noteworthy figure, and is intended to honor his legacy. The bill provides detailed specifications about the geographical range of this designation, from the Arkansas state line near Springhill to the southernmost city limits of Cullen, ensuring clear identification of the memorial segment of the highway. The expected outcome of this renaming includes the installation of appropriate signage which will acknowledge the name change and help raise awareness of Crow's contributions.
Overall, the sentiment surrounding HB 71 appears largely positive, as it highlights efforts to honor significant individuals within the community. Members of the legislative assembly supported this recognition, reflecting a general consensus on the value of memorializing important local figures. The legislative vote was unanimous, indicating strong bipartisan support and an acknowledgment of the bill's merit among lawmakers.
While the bill passed without significant opposition, potential contention could arise in the future regarding the maintenance of the signage and the implications of state-funded versus privately funded memorials. The provision requiring local or private funds for the signage might raise questions about the equitable acknowledgment of memorials across different regions, especially if financial resources vary significantly among localities.