Transform Your Town into a Tourist Destination

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Laurel, Mississippi, is set to undergo a transformative period of growth and renewal, thanks to a recent award of $24.8 million through the RAISE (Rebuild America Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity) grant program.  This significant investment is a game changer for the community, aimed at making vital improvements to the city’s infrastructure and positioning Laurel for long-term economic success.

The downtown area, known for its historic charm and southern hospitality, will be at the heart of these upgrades.  Long overdue road improvements will modernize the city’s streets while maintaining the character that has drawn visitors and businesses alike.  The funds will be used to repave roads, improve traffic flow, and enhance pedestrian safety—laying the groundwork for a more accessible and sustainable city center.  These improvements will not only support local businesses but also create a more vibrant, walkable downtown, encouraging foot traffic and community engagement.

Beyond the roads, the grant also supports other essential infrastructure projects, including updates to drainage systems, water lines, and public utilities.  These improvements are vital as Laurel continues to grow, ensuring that the city’s infrastructure can support both its current needs and future demands.

While the downtown revitalization is crucial, the opening of the I-59 South Industrial Site marks a bold step in Laurel's economic development strategy.  Partnering with the Jones County Economic Development Authority, the city has successfully launched this industrial site, offering nearly 400 acres of prime land for new industries to set up operations.  Located strategically along the I-59 corridor, the site provides easy access to major transportation routes, making it an attractive destination for businesses looking to expand or relocate.

The industrial site promises to bring new job opportunities and increase the tax base, further fueling Laurel’s economic engine.  With the infrastructure improvements downtown and the new industrial site working in tandem, Laurel is positioning itself as a hub for both commerce and culture, blending its rich heritage with a forward-looking vision.

Local officials are optimistic about the future.  “This RAISE grant, along with the opening of the I-59 South Industrial Site, marks a new chapter for Laurel,” says Mayor Johnny Magee.  “We’re not just building roads; we’re building a future that’s sustainable, equitable, and full of opportunity for our citizens.”

With the RAISE grant and the development of the I-59 South Industrial Site, Laurel is paving the way—quite literally—for a prosperous and sustainable future.  The combination of infrastructure upgrades and new economic opportunities signals a city on the rise, ready to embrace its role as a key player in Mississippi’s growth.