Page 106 - South Mississippi Living - August, 2024

Discover
DOWNTOWN GULFPORT
story and photos courtesy of Gulfport Main Street Association
WHAT WE DO
Gulfport Main Street Association is a nonprofit organization that has been instrumental in the rebuilding and revitalization of our district in Gulfport. This district is dedicated to redeveloping in a sensible manner that ensures long-term viability. Our Four- Point Approach simultaneously focuses on organization, design, economic restructuring, and promotions.
With the assistance of Mississippi Main Street and the National Trust for Historic Preservation,
than a century. The program has helped us preserve our rich history while preparing for a vibrant future.
Beautifying and Strengthening Downtown
A $7.6 million Streetscape Project has transformed the face of downtown by repairing and updating roadways and public areas. Coupled with new infrastructure, the streetscape project has positioned Downtown Gulfport for growth and expansion.
Looking ahead, the Gulfport Main Street Association is gearing up for a lighting revitalization project that is set to begin soon. This project aims to enhance the aesthetic appeal of downtown Gulfport by installing new lighting fixtures and improving existing infrastructure. The revitalization project is expected
to not only beautify the area but also attract more visitors and businesses to the downtown area.
Promoting, Marketing, and Making Things Happen
Gulfport Main Street Association helps organize events and activities that attract visitors to the downtown area. This year GMSA has added a handful of new events and there are more to come. We were excited to host our first annual Arts & Antiques in the Alley festival this past Spring and we are looking forward to adding another art festival in collaboration with the Gulfport Art Center in late Summer.
BECOME A MEMBER
As a member of the Gulfport Main Street Association,
you’ll be a part of the continued growth of downtown as a stakeholder in our economic development project, design, and special events. Together, we’ll preserve our past, celebrate the present, and prepare for a vibrant future. We are proud to say that membership tripled in 2023 from past years. Join us on this journey by becoming a member today!
Several membership tiers are available, from Associate Partner to Corporate Partner. Find out more about the membership levels and benefits of each at www.downtowngulfport.org/ become-a-member.
Kristen Garriga.
Gulfport Main Street Association continues to help light the way for businesses and residents of the downtown district, under the direction of Executive Director Kristen Garriga.
Garriga, who has been the executive director of the association since 2023, has been instrumental in leading various initiatives to enhance the economic development and overall appeal of the area. One of the recent successes under Garriga’s leadership was the commercial economic
development possibilities tour that took place in June. This tour brought together local business owners, developers, and investors to explore potential opportunities for growth and investment
in downtown Gulfport.The event was a huge success, sparking interest and enthusiasm for the area’s economic potential. Preserving History, Preparing for the Future
Gulfport Main Street has overseen many economic development projects such as a facade grant program which improved the exteriors of nearly 70 buildings, many of which date back more
106 | August 2024
www.smliving.net | SOUTH MISSISSIPPI Living