Brookshire Grocery Arena Parking Closure, Walker Place Park

As the Ark-La-Tex braces for a winter storm that meteorologists warn could be a "crippling" and "historic" event for the South, local preparations are reaching a critical peak.

In a significant move to ensure emergency readiness, one of the area’s most popular public spaces is temporarily closing its doors to accommodate the heroes on the front lines.

Emergency Parking at Brookshire Grocery Arena

Officials have issued a Parking Advisory for the Brookshire Grocery Arena in Bossier City. Starting at 5:00 PM on Friday, January 23, 2026, the parking at Walker Place Park, located at the arena, will be strictly closed to the public.

This closure is necessary to clear the lot for emergency vehicle parking, allowing utility crews and first responders to stage their equipment in a centralized location. Residents who frequently use the park for walks or exercise are asked to have all personal vehicles removed from the Arena lots by the 5:00 PM deadline.

A Historic Threat Looms Over

The urgency of this closure underscores the severity of the incoming weather. A Winter Storm Watch is currently in effect, with forecasts predicting a dangerous mix of freezing rain, sleet, and snow. Some models suggest the Shreveport-Bossier metro could see up to 0.75 of an inch to 1 inch of ice accumulation, a level that can be "devastating" to trees and power lines.

Meteorologists have compared the potential impact to the catastrophic ice storm of 1994, which left hundreds of thousands without power and water across the region. Experts warn that travel could become "difficult, if not impossible," and significant power outages are expected as the weight of the ice strains the electrical grid.

City and Parish Response

Bossier and Shreveport leaders are pushing for residents to complete all winter weather preparations immediately. The Bossier Parish Police Jury and various city departments are coordinating to prioritize routes to hospitals and critical infrastructure. By clearing public spaces like Walker Place Park for emergency crews, the city is ensuring that help can move quickly once the "historic" blast arrives.

Residents are encouraged to stay off the roads once the storm begins to allow these emergency crews to work safely.