Picayune Item
City Makes Final Push For Funding
By Special to the Item
Picayune Mayor Jim Luke, Councilwoman Lynn Bumpers, Councilwoman Jan Stevens, Councilman Larry Breland, and City Clerk Sid Albritton recently took a trip to Washington, D.C. to make a final push for federal support for the I-59 Frontage Road Project. If funded, the new Frontage Road is expected to bring positive changes to the city’s commercial sector.
The project aims to create a robust commercial corridor that will foster economic growth, attract new businesses, and enhance the overall developmental landscape of the area. It will also improve access to local businesses. Mayor Luke and the City Council team strongly believe that the project will serve as a catalyst for future investment opportunities, positioning Picayune as a vibrant hub for commerce and community prosperity.
During their visit to the nation’s capital, the city delegation met with U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith, and representatives from Congressman Mike Ezell’s office to discuss the project’s potential impact on the region’s commercial and economic landscape. The positive response received during these discussions fueled optimism about the project’s potential.
Mayor Luke expressed his appreciation for the unwavering commitment of Councilwoman Bumpers, Councilwoman Stevens, and Councilman Breland, emphasizing their collective dedication to advancing the city’s vision. He said, “This is truly a testament to the strength of our team and our shared commitment to moving Picayune forward. The I-59 Frontage Road Project is not just about infrastructure; it is about creating a dynamic commercial corridor that will be the heartbeat of future development in Picayune. We laid the groundwork for a thriving economic center that will attract businesses, create jobs, and contribute to the prosperity of our community.”
Councilwoman Lynn Bumpers underscored the project’s potential to attract new investments, stating, “This commercial area will be a draw for businesses looking to establish a presence in our community. The strategic location and planning of the I-59 Frontage Road make it an ideal driver for economic development.”
Councilwoman Jan Stevens highlighted the significance of the project in fostering community growth. “The commercial land envisioned in the Frontage Road Project is a blueprint for development. It’s about creating opportunities for our residents, supporting local businesses, and positioning our community for long-term success,” she said.
Councilman Larry Breland echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the collaborative effort needed for the success of the project. He stated, “As we advocated for the funding of the I-59 Frontage Road Project last week, we were not just investing in infrastructure; we were investing in the economic future of our community. The collaboration between local, state, and federal partners is crucial to realizing the full potential of this transformative project.”
As the city awaits further developments, Mayor Luke and the City Council expressed their commitment to keeping the community informed about progress and opportunities for engagement. The I-59 Frontage Road Project represents a significant step forward in the collective vision for a prosperous and vibrant Picayune and Pearl River County.