During Picayune Main Street’s quarterly meeting, attendees heard about advancements to work at Crosby Commons and plans for economic development from the Greater Picayune Area Chamber of Commerce new executive director.
City Manager Jim Luke took the stage first, outlining work to install a walking track and amphitheater at the city’s newest park.
Work to install the walking track and amphitheater is expected to start in June, Luke said. Funding for the work was provided by grants from the Lower Pearl River Valley Foundation, the Mississippi Department of Transportation and “funds we can’t speak about yet,” Luke said.
He also suggested local organizations purchase historic markers for the park, such as Chamber of Commerce and Picayune Main Street. Luke said the city has already purchased two, one outlining the history of Crosby Commons and events that have taken place at the site, and another covering the story of City Hall.
The largest size available can be purchased for $2,000, with a marker half that size available for $1,000.
Chamber Executive Director Nuria Arias then spoke about her plans to help drive the chamber, and therefore the business community, into the future.
Her goals include enhancing the value of membership, promoting economic development and strengthening the chamber so members get a better return on their investment in a chamber membership.
To do that some changes will include a revamp of the Chamber’s website by providing a website page for each member business that will allow them to share their message. Also, reviews will be incorporated into the website.
Arias has plans to implement summits, conferences and workshops to help with workforce development.
By networking with lawmakers, the chamber aims to brand Picayune and Pearl River County as a place to bring in or start businesses and industries.
And, to allow the community to become involved, committees will be established to oversee education, finance and development of the workforce and economy. She said business owners should expect to hear from the chamber about joining one of the committees.
“We need to be united in getting this plan into action,” Arias said.