Focusing on economic development and growth, a $1.3 billion investment plan was recently unveiled by Mississippi Governor Tate, which will be spread over various development projects across the state. The package includes an additional $100 million for the Emergency Road and Bridge Repair Program, $57 million earmarked for the development of project-ready sites, and $206 million which will be divided among eight infrastructure projects across the Pine Belt.
Outlining the allocation of money in the Pine Belt, WLOX reported:
• Covington County: $20,000,000 for pavement restoration of US 84 East of Collins
• Forrest County:
$64,530,000 for I-59 interchange improvements at I-59 and US 11- Phase 1
$111,900,000 for I-59 interchange improvements at I-59 and US 98- Phase 2
• Economic Development Authority of Jones County: $250,000 for updated environmental due diligence, extending of existing roadways and constructing a temporary railroad crossing at the I-59 South Industrial Site
• Marion County Economic Development District: $250,000 for environmental due diligence and access road improvements at the Marion Regional AirPlex and IndustryPlex
• Greene County: $50,000 for environmental due diligence for 20 acres in Greene County Industrial Par
• Wayne County Board of Supervisors: $25,000 for environmental due diligence at Meadowlands Industrial Park