Bay St. Louis boardwalk extension to add 500 feet of walkway

Construction work will restart on the Bay St. Louis boardwalk extension next week.

The city began building on a storm surge scour pad that runs alongside downtown. Locals used the concrete structure as a walkway for years, even though it was not originally designed for pedestrians. The current effort upgrades this surface into a formal, ADA-accessible boardwalk.

Chiniche Surveying and Engineering is leading the build. The firm is working directly with city officials to create a continuous path. The design connects the harbor to Ulman Avenue and then descends onto the sand beach. This route links the downtown core with the shoreline.

The project is divided into four distinct phases. Phase one and portions of phase two are already open to the public. The remaining construction will add final structural elements and surface finishes.

The finished walkway will span roughly five to six hundred feet. It will feature multiple ADA ramps providing direct access to the sand. A low pier will be constructed near a firepit area. The path will run from the vicinity of Main Street all the way to Ulman Avenue. Benches and picnic tables are included in the final design to support dining and recreation.

Jason Chiniche, the principal engineer on the project, stated that the goal is a walkable pathway from the harbor to the beach. He noted that the handrails and cable rail systems were engineered to keep sightlines clear for nearby restaurants. This design allows for easier movement between dining areas and the boardwalk.

David Treutel, a long-time resident, cited the new ADA ramps as a key benefit. He said he values the ability to reach the beach easily as he ages. The completed boardwalk is scheduled to be finished by Fall 2027.