Shreveport Police Seek Funding for New Rescue Boat
The department wants to replace its current fishing vessel with a specialized patrol boat for local water rescues.
Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in Emergency Response
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Shreveport police are requesting city council approval to purchase a new Vigilance 23 center console patrol boat to improve rescue operations. The department currently relies on a fishing boat that officers say is prone to mechanical issues and unsafe for emergency tasks.
Why it matters
The proposal aims to reduce the police department's dependency on external agencies for water-based emergencies. Officials argue the upgrade is necessary because the current vessel requires frequent repairs and lacks the stability required for rescue work.
The proposed Vigilance 23 patrol boat carries an estimated price tag between $260,000 and $280,000. If approved, the vessel would arrive within an estimated 8 to 12 months.
The players
Shreveport Police Department
This is the primary law enforcement agency serving the city of Shreveport.
The details
Currently, Shreveport officers are forced to use a standard fishing boat that is inadequate for high-risk water rescue operations. By investing in professional-grade equipment, the city hopes to manage its own emergency responses without seeking outside help.
Timeline
October 13, 2026: Police presented the boat funding request to city council.
October 27, 2026: City council is scheduled to vote on the purchase legislation.
8 to 12 months after approval: The projected delivery window for the new boat.
Seasonal Patterns
This proposal reflects a shift toward upgrading emergency infrastructure in alignment with the National Fire Protection Association's 1925 standards for marine rescue vessels. Improving maritime capabilities helps the department meet safety benchmarks that older, general-purpose boats cannot support.
Residents should monitor the city council vote for updates on whether the department will receive this equipment. Improved water rescue capability may eventually lead to faster response times for emergencies occurring on local waterways.
The takeaway
Replacing aging equipment with specialized tools is a critical step for improving emergency safety and local operational independence. Moving away from converted fishing boats allows for more reliable performance during high-stakes water rescue scenarios.
What happens next
The city council will hold a formal vote on the proposed rescue boat legislation on October 27, 2026.
Further reading
For additional updates on municipal safety initiatives, visit the Shreveport Emergency Response section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Ksla.
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