Dear Residents of Zachary,

As we approach the end of the year, I am pleased to share updates on the progress and accomplishments in our city, as well as a glimpse of what lies ahead. Your support and engagement continue to make Zachary a thriving community.

Completed Projects in 2024

1. HugYourPeople Community Park Improvements

• A $100,000 state grant enabled us to install inclusive playground equipment, including a slide designed for children of all abilities.

• Security enhancements include new fencing and gates, ensuring a safe environment for everyone.

2. Food Pantry Upgrades

• With state support, new flooring and roofing were installed, providing a safer and more welcoming space for volunteers and families in need.

3. Zachary Youth Park Restrooms

• A state grant funded the construction of a new ladies' restroom facility, improving amenities for visitors.

4. City Dump Improvements

• Upgrades include a new fence, a covered building, and recertification as an emergency debris site.

5. Smart Gas and Water Meters: Nearly 99% of our smart water (8,800 meters) and gas meters (5,700 meters) are operational. Residents can now monitor usage via the Customer Portal.

6. Road Rehabilitation

• Road repairs and upgrades are underway across all council districts.

7. New Police Department 

• The new facility at Old Slaughter and Montuguedo Blvd. is now operational.

8. Police Pay and Equipment Upgrades

• Starting pay for officers increased by 6%, effective July 2024.

• Officers are receiving new equipment, integrated with the court system for efficiency.

9. Water Safety and Infrastructure

• A recent study confirmed no traces of lead in our water lines.

• Ongoing upgrades to lift stations and flood prevention efforts are improving wastewater management and community safety.

10. Veterans Day Parade

• We introduced a new parade to honor our veterans, culminating at Zachary High School after a ceremony at the Regional Veterans Park.

11. Community Grants and Relief Efforts

• Local grants supported landscaping and tree planting at key city locations.

• Team Zachary Strong provided hurricane relief and aid to Asheville residents after Hurricane Helene. 

12. Employee Education Opportunities

• We partnered with Upper Iowa University to offer discounted education programs for city employees and their families.

13. Main Street LED Lighting

• Upgraded streetlights to energy-efficient LEDs, improving nighttime safety and visibility.

Coming Soon

1. Tourist Trolley

• State funding has been secured for a tourist trolley to promote local tourism.

2. MOVE BR Program

• Traffic light synchronization and new crosswalks will enhance traffic flow and safety.

3. Annexation of Mt. Pleasant Road

• Plans are underway for annexation, including the addition of the new Gerry Lane Dealership.

4. Motorola Wireless Tower

• A new tower will improve cell service and emergency communications.

5. New Water Well and Fire Station

• A water well on Carpenter Road is halfway completed.

• A $2 million grant will fund a new fire station on Flonacher Road.

6. City Hall Renovation

• Plans are in place to renovate City Hall, uniting city employees under one roof to better serve residents.

7. Beautification and Shopping Center Updates

• A grant from Keep Louisiana Beautiful will enhance landscaping and trash receptacles.

• Renovations to Rouses Shopping Center, Hwy 55, and new developments like Benny’s Car Wash and BQuick are coming.

8. City Website Launch

• A newly updated website will launch in January 2025 to improve resident access to city resources.

9. Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall

• The wall will be featured as part of our Veterans Day celebrations.

Together, we’ve achieved so much, and I look forward to an even brighter future for Zachary. Thank you for your continued support and dedication to our community.

Wishing you and your families a happy and prosperous New Year.

Sincerely,

Mayor David McDavid