Ward details $23 million in county growth projects at PRCC

Lindsay Ward, the economic development director for Pearl River County, presented a status report on local growth projects to community members and local leaders at Pearl River Community College on Thursday, Oct. 22. The presentation, held before a Lunch and Learn session, included a prior meeting with students from the Dr. William Lewis Honors Institute.

Ward reported that the county has secured nearly $23 million for development initiatives. This total includes more than $18.6 million in funding from partners located outside the county. She stated that the primary objective of these efforts is to create high-paying jobs within the county to retain local talent.

Data presented by Ward showed that more than 1,000 residents currently work in advanced manufacturing roles outside of Pearl River County. She noted that many existing local jobs do not meet the livable wage threshold for individuals, couples, or families. Ward emphasized that residents already possess the necessary skills for these positions and are currently commuting out of the area to find work.

Infrastructure improvements are underway at the Pearl River County Industrial Park in Poplarville. The site has expanded by 211 acres adjacent to the original 130-acre plot. Traffic flow improvements on Highway 26 are complete, and a water tower is planned for future construction following a utilities expansion. The county has also completed two 10,000-square-foot buildings at the Tech Park near Picayune Municipal Airport. A speculative building is currently proposed for the Poplarville site. A recently completed plan recommends extending the airport runway to 5,000 feet and adding hangars. Construction on a new emergency operations center with a fire station near the county fairgrounds is scheduled to begin within the year.

Ward cited tax revenue increases from businesses such as Home Depot in Picayune and Love’s in Poplarville as evidence of the financial benefits of development. She stated that this revenue directly supports local cities and school districts. Carol Williams, interim director of Poplarville Main Street, and Laura O’Neill, a board member of the Poplarville Area Chamber of Commerce, provided updates on upcoming events. They announced the formation of a new Pearl River County Chamber of Commerce to consolidate the existing Picayune and Poplarville chambers. This new entity will become effective on Jan. 1.

PRCC President Dr. Adam Breerwood introduced Ward and credited her with representing the college and community effectively to potential industry partners. He expressed gratitude for her leadership and work in securing funding for the county.