‘Hang on for the ride’ — Mississippi mayor touts $1.38 billion economic boost from new developments

Published 5:36 pm Wednesday, June 12, 2024

One Mississippi mayor told residents to “hang on for the ride” while the city experiences a boost from $1.38 billion in new private capital investments.

Southhaven Mayor Darren Musselwhite touted recently completed and pending development for the north Mississippi city just south of Memphis.

“Did I say, billion? How much is a billion? A billion is one thousand millions!” Musselwhite said. “Again, 1.38 billion dollars has recently been invested or soon will be in our city!”

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Amidst challenging national economic factors, Southaven stands out as a beacon of positive growth.

In his post, Musselwhite said he frequently hears comments like, “Man, there’s a lot going on in Southaven these days!” and “Mayor, Wow! Southaven is hopping right now!”

These sentiments reflect the visible and significant economic development occurring throughout the city, Musselwhite said.

The mayor said the surge in development will enhance the amenities and quality of life for Southaven’s residents while contributing substantially to the city’s general fund through new property and sales taxes. This financial influx will enable the expansion of public safety services, street resurfacing, and the enhancement of other city amenities, all while stabilizing property tax rates.

Key developments contributing to this economic upswing include major projects in the established Goodman corridor, Metropolitan District (Church Road), and various other areas totaling $321 million. Notable projects include new dealerships, hotels, and retail establishments such as the Kia and Honda dealerships, multiple Whataburger locations, Staybridge and Hyatt House Hotels, and the Stonecrest Mixed-Use/Retail project.

The Getwell corridor and Snowden District, in particular, are experiencing unprecedented demand. The Silo Square mixed-use district is a centerpiece of this growth, featuring developments like Desoto Square, Top of the Sip Mixed-Use, Let it Fly Sports Restaurant, and many more, contributing over $1 billion in forthcoming developments.

To support this rapid growth, Southaven is also investing in transportation infrastructure and public safety enhancements, Musselwhite said. Projects such as the widening of Snowden Lane, the Nail Road extension, and the upcoming I-55/Church Interchange widening, along with the opening of a new Police East Precinct and Fire Station #5, are crucial to accommodating the city’s expanding needs, the mayor said.

“Hang on for the ride, Southaven!” Musselwhite said.