Gateway Industrial Park Receives $1.1M - Pike County, MS

November 13, 2024

(Source: Governor Tate Reeves’ official announcement on Mississippi’s statewide economic development investments, available here.)

Pike County, Mississippi, Receives $1.1 Million Grant for Gateway Industrial Park Enhancements

Pike County is poised for significant economic growth following the announcement of a $1.1 million grant dedicated to the development of the Gateway Industrial Park. This funding is part of Mississippi’s broader $110 million statewide initiative aimed at laying the foundation for long-term economic success. The investment reflects a commitment to fostering local opportunities and creating an environment that attracts business and industry.

The Gateway Industrial Park, a critical part of Pike County’s economic vision, will benefit from this grant through expanded infrastructure and enhanced capabilities designed to attract new industries. The project is expected to create jobs, draw investments, and support local businesses, signaling a promising future for Pike County residents.

JACKSON, Miss. – Governor Tate Reeves today announced the state of Mississippi is investing over $110 million toward economic development, infrastructure upgrades, workforce development, tourism, and conservation efforts throughout Mississippi.

“The majority of grant approvals, totaling over $97 million, will be invested into projects that will further strengthen Mississippi’s economy through site development, infrastructure improvements, and workforce training support. This massive investment will help expand infrastructure capabilities at sites across the state and better position Mississippi to secure even more record-breaking private sector investment. Funding for these projects is available through the Mississippi Development Authority (MDA), Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC), Delta Regional Authority (DRA), RESTORE Act, GOMESA, and Southeast Crescent Regional Commission (SCRC),” Governor Reeves stated.

“Mississippi’s economic development results have been historic and unprecedented,” he continued. “We’ve secured billions in new private sector investment and created thousands of jobs across the state. The funding we announced today will go a long way toward continuing Mississippi’s economic momentum and will help create more high-paying job opportunities for Mississippians across the state.”

Through its Site Development Grant Program, which provides funding in three categories, MDA is committing $29,358,784 in site development grant funding. This program was created in 2021 to increase the number of competitive industrial sites available to meet the needs of prospective companies. Pike County’s Gateway Industrial Park is one of several sites benefiting from this initiative, which provides funding for properties based on specific criteria through its Select Sites, Premier Sites, and Ready Sites programs.

Site Development Grant Program awards include:

East Metro Center Industrial Park, Rankin County – $2,360,803 to extend water and sewer lines.
MS River Energy Complex, Adams County – $3,292,000 to clear and level 140 acres.
MS River Inland Port Complex Megasite, Warren County – $10,483,796 to conduct wetlands mitigation as required by the site’s U.S. Army Corps of Engineers permit.
Springs Industrial Park, Marshall County – $486,000 to conduct a transmission line scoping study to determine the necessary route for running power to the site.
Gateway Industrial Park, Pike County – $1,114,875 to clear trees, conduct grading to improve ingress, add signage, and complete site due diligence.
Stennis Technology Park, Hancock County – $3,000,000 to grub, grade, and construct two building pads, design and construct access roads, extend water and sewer lines, and make drainage improvements.
Martintown North Industrial Park, Union County – $1,711,000 to construct a 300,000-square-foot building pad in Martintown North Industrial Park.
I-59 South Industrial Site, Jones County – $828,500 to extend water lines into the site, rehabilitate an existing 1,000,000-gallon water tank, and improve an access road.
Eagle One Mega Site, Forrest and Lamar Counties – $2,430,000 to conduct the necessary engineering to pursue a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers permit for the site.
Pearl River County Industrial Park, Pearl River County – $1,438,650 to construct a water tank and relocate power lines.

Pike County: Positioned for Growth

Located in the heart of Southwest Mississippi, Pike County is strategically positioned for industrial and economic development. Its proximity to major highways, railways, and a skilled workforce makes it an attractive location for businesses. With the support of this grant, the Gateway Industrial Park will play a pivotal role in solidifying Pike County’s reputation as a hub for industry and innovation.

Key improvements to the park include:

Tree Clearing and Site Preparation: Clearing trees and preparing the site for development to improve overall usability.
Grading and Improved Ingress: Conducting grading work to enhance access and optimize the layout for businesses.
Signage and Site Due Diligence: Installing signage to increase visibility and completing critical site due diligence to attract future tenants.
Land Preparation: Preparing additional acreage to accommodate a range of industries.
Road and Transportation Enhancements: Upgrading infrastructure to ensure smooth logistics and accessibility for businesses and employees.

These enhancements ensure Gateway Industrial Park is fully prepared to meet the needs of incoming businesses, making Pike County an even more competitive destination for industry growth.

Driving Economic Development

The $1.1 million investment in Gateway Industrial Park represents a transformative opportunity for Pike County. These strategic upgrades aim to attract investments, create jobs, and bolster the county’s economic prospects, positioning it as a key player in Mississippi’s statewide development strategy.

The improvements to the industrial park will strengthen Pike County’s ability to attract high-quality employers, stimulate job creation, and drive sustainable economic progress. These enhancements ensure that the Gateway Industrial Park is well-positioned to meet the needs of incoming businesses and industries, reinforcing its role as a cornerstone of regional growth.

Community Engagement and Future Vision

The grant is just the beginning of an ongoing effort to position Pike County as a leader in economic innovation. The community’s role will be essential in supporting this initiative. From training programs to workforce development partnerships with local school and colleges, residents will have opportunities to gain the skills needed to participate in the region’s growth.

A Bright Future for Pike County

This $1.1 million grant is more than a financial investment—it’s a vote of confidence in Pike County’s potential. By strengthening infrastructure and attracting forward-thinking businesses, the Gateway Industrial Park will serve as a cornerstone for regional development and a beacon of opportunity for years to come.

As Pike County takes this significant step forward, the community celebrates not only the possibilities ahead but also the partnerships that made this achievement possible.

(Source: Governor Tate Reeves’ official announcement on Mississippi’s statewide economic development investments, available here.)