West Monroe info?? (recommend)

[Vic_Vega]

Originally Posted by LSU Tiger Z71

International Paper in Bastrop,LA, around 30min. north of Monroe, closed. You couldn't see or smell it from Monroe, however.

Graphic Packaging is an active paper mill in West Monroe and it pretty close to core development in that city. You can't notice it across the river, however, in Monroe.

Ok.. thanks very much!

[Twintastic]

Graphic Packaging is south off the Thomas Rd. exit off I-20. I love West Monroe. I don't even notice the smell hardly anymore and usually the only time I smell it is when I am on I-20 within the area of the mill.

[whatever7]

yes you can.... the stench travels depending on which way and how strong the winds are blowing!

[LSU Tiger Z71]

Originally Posted by whatever7

yes you can.... the stench travels depending on which way and how strong the winds are blowing!

I must have a terrible sense of smell. I've been in that area MANY times in my life and never really smell it. I must fail at life.

[LOUISIANA'SLEGEND]

Originally Posted by Twintastic

Graphic Packaging is south off the Thomas Rd. exit off I-20. I love West Monroe. I don't even notice the smell hardly anymore and usually the only time I smell it is when I am on I-20 within the area of the mill.

That 100% correct, and to add to that its only certain times of the day. I dont know when, cause I dont live in West Monroe. I never, never, ever, ever, smell the dam paper mill as a Monroe resident, til i pass by it in West Monroe within the area of it. A quick pass and its over, 6 secs. Get you a face mask or some!! <<< yea get one of those, just tuck the nose in.

[Mya665]

Originally Posted by LSU Tiger Z71

Maybe you should had investigated your property better before buying. West Monroe, in general, does not stink. You should had researched another location to build a home-- maybe on the other side of the river?

To the original poster, I prefer Monroe in terms of places to live. Neat and interesting homes in the Garden District/River Oaks.. Nice subdivisions to north with plenty of natural water/golf courses, etc. More school selection, I don't see the appeal in going to West Monroe High School at all. West Monroe also has a different culture from Monroe.. They are more "redneck" while Monroe is more "country/Southern."

You have to admit the school system in Monroe does have it's problems. I admit West Monroe High School has it's problems (it thinks football is the only thing worthwhile) But the west side of the river is still a better school zone. As for the neighborhoods, I like both Monroe and West Monroe having lived for 20 years in northside Monroe and now live in West Monroe. So, you have to decide for yourself. Location, and how long it takes you to get to work, shopping. I would advise anyone moving here to rent in a desirable neighborhood for six months to a year before buying. That way you can read the papers, watch the news, talk to your neighbors, co-workers, drive around and find out for yourself where you really want to live.

Oh, by the way, welcome to Louisiana, original poster!

[LSU Tiger Z71]

Originally Posted by Mya665

But the west side of the river is still a better school zone.

I disagree. Monroe City schools are the only trouble area. Ouachita Parish schools on both sides are fine.

Neville HS isn't even that bad. Also, you have RO, OCS, OPHS, Sterlington on the east side as well.

[Sephiroth85]

The area near Kiroli isn't too bad, though in recent months there have been an increase in auto burglaries within the last few months. Overall; the neighborhood is pretty good, and a fairly nice area to stay in. Most of your grocery/restaurant needs can be found on the west side of the river, though you'll be looking at a 10/15 min drive to the mall in Monroe, which isn't so bad.

As for neighborhoods in Monroe, the garden district is another worthwhile place to look at, and I also lived in the Town & Country area for a little while and both are good areas to look into if you're relocating.

[Twintastic]

I live in the Claiborne school zone and I have not had any issues here. Claiborne is a great school. My son is starting his 3rd year there.

If you are looking for something in West Monroe, stay in the Claiborne, George Welch or Kiroli school zones. There are more good areas but I know these are pretty good areas to stay in.

[brower]

Originally Posted by kimb667

Hello, My husband and I are relocating to Monroe for his job in September. We've heard West Monroe is the best place to live. Can anyone give me pointers about the best neighborhoods in the city?? and the neighborhoods to avoid?

Which did you choose, Monroe or W. Monroe and were you happy with your choice?
I plan to retire next year, and my husband and I are considering the West Monroe area.