In 2001, The Louisiana Legislature created the Southside Economic Development District (SEDD) in response to a legislative initiative of then Senator Charles D. Jones (D. 34) and then Rep. Willie Hunter Jr. (D.17). The legislation gave governess powers to a board of commissioners that manages and guides the program.

The legislation authorizes the SEDD Board to prepare or cause to be prepared a plan or plans specifying the public improvements, facilities, and services proposed to be furnished, constructed, or acquired shall conduct public hearings, publish notices with respect thereto, and disseminate such information assist, In the exercise of its sound discretion, may deem to be appropriate or advisable and in the public interest.

The first action of the board was the development of a plan to be used as to guide the Southside district’s energy, time, and dollars. In June of 2003, the district submitted its first plan to the Monroe City Council, and it was approved.

In May of 2022, that plan was updated and unanimously approved by the Monroe Planning Commission and the Monroe City Council.

It is often referred to as the “Southside Dream.”