ArkLaTex

ArkLaTex is a colloquial term used to describe a tri-state region in the Southern United States. The name is a portmanteau of the states that comprise the area: Arkansas, Louisiana, and Texas. Specifically, it refers to the metropolitan area centered around Shreveport, Louisiana, and extends into contiguous areas of western Arkansas and eastern Texas. The region is characterized by its shared cultural heritage, economic ties, and geographical proximity. Many residents identify with the ArkLaTex designation, recognizing the interconnectedness of the communities. The primary economic drivers within ArkLaTex include industries such as oil and gas, manufacturing, and agriculture. Shreveport serves as the major urban center and the nexus of transportation and commerce for the surrounding rural and suburban areas. The Red River flows through the heart of the ArkLaTex region, influencing its development and ecology. Cultural influences from both the Deep South and the Southwest are evident throughout the ArkLaTex. The term is less formal than official geographic designations and is often used in local media and by residents.