Page 111 - South Mississippi Living - January, 2019

BAY ST. LOUIS
A PLACE APART
story by Lynn Lofton photo courtesy of The City of Bay Saint Louis
The slogan for the city of Bay Saint Louis is A Place Apart. Mayor Mike Favre says it lives up to those words, meaning it’s a melting pot of art, culture, cuisine, entertainment and family friendly fun. “We pride ourselves on providing a safe, welcoming environment for all. We hope others discover all that Bay Saint Louis has
to offer, as we already know it’s a little piece of Heaven with opportunities galore,” he added.
The city’s population grew by 12 percent with over $25 million in residential developments in the past year. “We attribute this positive growth to the prospering of our waterfront
228.466.8951 www.baystlouis-ms.gov
areas with new and second home owner developments,” Favre says. “Being named one of the Top 5 Most Beautiful Cities in America and one of the Top 10 Most Affordable Beach Cities in America contributed too. Our downtown area is one of the hottest places on the Coast, and we are officially a golf cart friendly community.”
The city’s economy has grown significantly with increased sales revenues from commercial partners and homeowners experienced increased property values. “We highly anticipate this upward trend in economic growth to continue,” the mayor said.
Looking ahead, the city hopes to secure funding for several large infrastructure projects, including the construction of
a new police department, significant paving and drainage projects, and
several sidewalk projects. “Also, we are actively seeking opportunities to develop the Highway 603/Interstate 10 corridor leading into Bay Saint Louis,” Favre said.
Other enhancements this year will
be improvements to the downtown harbor which will add approximately 55 wet slips; extension of the day pier; a pedestrian access ramp and walkway; more restrooms; and WiFi service for tenants.
The city is working with developers to rejuvenate the historical Depot District to include a microbrewery and pub. A family friendly entertainment complex on Highway 90 with a state-of-the-art arcade, old fashioned skating rink, rock climbing, sports themed restaurant and two downtown hotels are anticipated in the near future.
FOR MORE REFLECTIONS OF THE GULF COAST >> www.smliving.net
January 2019 • SOUTH MISSISSIPPI Living 111
THIS CITY SPONSORED BY
CITY
CLOSEUPS
CITY OF