Page 10 - Pascagoula Magazine - 2025

Transformation
PASCAGOULA’S
The story of Downtown Pascagoula’s revitalization is one of collaboration, vision, and innovative planning
strategies. The formation of the Pascagoula Redevelopment Authority (PRA) in 2011 marked the beginning of a commitment
to urban renewal and the revitalization
of blighted properties, including the riverfront area. This dedication to change was backed by key projects such as the Riverfront Townhomes. This initial project served as a catalyst for the PRA’s mission and set the stage for the transformation that followed.
Early funding from the Gulf Coast
Restoration Funds (GCRF), sourced from BP Oil Spill recovery, highlighted the strong advocacy of state legislators for the PRA’s downtown restoration efforts. A group
of talented developers recognized the potential for revitalizing historic structures and embracing mixed-use development,
a pivotal aspect of the PRA’s strategy.
One of the first mixed-use developments repurposed a historic fire department building into a restaurant and rental living space. It was among the first to showcase the possibilities of revitalizing old structures and paved the way for the many developments that took place.
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Pascagoula, MS 2025 • www.cityofpascagoula.com