Governor Tate Reeves has revealed that Pearl River County will receive significant funding for Mississippi’s $110 million investment in economic development, infrastructure upgrades, and workforce training.

The statewide initiative will allocate over $97 million to site development, infrastructure improvements, and workforce training programs to attract private-sector investment. The funding comes from multiple sources, including the Mississippi Development Authority (MDA), Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC), Delta Regional Authority (DRA), RESTORE Act, GOMESA, and Southeast Crescent Regional Commission (SCRC).

Pearl River County will receive $4.8 million for critical projects aimed at strengthening the local economy and improving infrastructure:

Key Projects in Pearl River County

• Pearl River County Industrial Park: $1,438,650 will improve the park’s infrastructure by funding the construction of water tanks and the relocation of power lines.
• Nicholson Water & Sewer Expansion: The Nicholson Water and Sewer Association will receive $446,888 to extend water and sewer services along the I-59 corridor.
• Poplarville-Pearl River County Airport Advancement Plan: $50,000 will support a strategic plan to position the airport for growth and economic development.
• I-59/Sycamore Intersection and Frontage Road Improvements: $500,000 will enhance traffic flow and safety at this critical intersection.
• Ole Miss Coastal Business Growth Accelerator: $312,000 will assist small businesses in the county as part of a two-year initiative.
• PRCC Hydrographic Technicians Program: $1,925,000 will establish a hydrographic science career pathway through Pearl River Community College, benefiting Pearl River and Hancock Counties students.
• Mississippi Artificial Intelligence Network (MAIN) Program: $7,141,244 will support AI workforce training, impacting Pearl River and other counties.

Comments from Leaders

Governor Reeves emphasized the importance of these investments:
“Mississippi’s economic development results have been historic and unprecedented. We’ve secured billions in new private-sector investment and created thousands of jobs. The funding we announced today will help sustain this momentum and create more high-paying job opportunities across the state.”

Pearl River County Economic Development Director Lindsay Ward expressed gratitude for the state’s support:
“Pearl River County greatly appreciates Governor Reeves’ continuous support and dedication to the economic development efforts for our region. Economic development is a team sport and would not be possible without the support of Governor Reeves, our legislators, the Mississippi Development Authority, and our local partners.”

Ward highlighted the significance of specific projects, including the industrial park upgrades and airport advancement plan:
“The continued investment into our industrial park will allow Pearl River County to compete more effectively for major industrial projects. The new water tower will support future industries and benefit residents by providing a more favorable fire rating. Additionally, the Poplarville-Pearl River County Airport Advancement Plan will identify opportunities for growth and collaboration.”