Two Jones County Properties Earn SiteInvest Designation

POSTED Friday, September 20th, 2024

 

The Economic Development Authority (EDA) of Jones County is proud to announce that two key industrial sites in the region, the I-59 South Industrial Site and the I-59 Supply Chain Park, have been awarded the highly sought-after Cooperative Energy SiteInvest Premier Property designation. This accolade highlights the sites’ readiness and immense potential for industrial development, making Jones County a prime destination for businesses seeking expansion opportunities.
 
A First-Round Success
 
The I-59 South Industrial Site and the I-59 Supply Chain Park are among only six sites across Cooperative Energy’s service area to earn this designation in the inaugural round of the SiteInvest program. This recognition underscores the strength of Jones County’s commitment to fostering economic growth and highlights the extensive development efforts that have gone into preparing these locations for industrial use.
 
Strategic Investments in Jones County
 
To date, nearly $9.7 million has been invested in these properties through the collaborative efforts of Cooperative Energy’s Cooperative Competes grant program, the Mississippi Development Authority Site Development Program, and local contributions. These investments have been instrumental in advancing the infrastructure and overall readiness of the sites, making them highly attractive for businesses looking to establish operations in the region.
 
Ross Tucker, President of the EDA of Jones County, shared his excitement: “Receiving the SiteInvest Premier Property designation is a tremendous achievement for our community. This recognition validates the hard work and investment we’ve made to attract businesses and create jobs in Jones County.”
 
About the I-59 South Industrial Site and I-59 Supply Chain Park
 
·      I-59 South Industrial Site: Spanning 440+ acres adjacent to Highway 11 in Ellisville, MS, this site is strategically positioned near key transportation routes, including Norfolk Southern Railroad and major roadways, with access to advanced workforce training through Jones College and nearby universities.

·      I-59 Supply Chain Park: This 164-acre site, situated between Laurel and Hattiesburg, boasts prime interstate frontage and is fully equipped with essential utilities, making it ideal for supply chain and logistics businesses.
 
Economic Growth in Jones County
 
The SiteInvest program, launched in 2023 by Cooperative Energy, aims to improve the development potential of industrial sites within its Members’ service territories. Designating these two properties is expected to enhance Jones County’s attractiveness as a hub for industrial growth, positioning the region as a key player in Mississippi’s economic development landscape. Mitch Stringer, Director of Economic Development at Cooperative Energy, noted, “These designations signify a major milestone in our efforts to foster industrial growth across our service areas. The readiness of these sites positions Jones County as a top choice for business expansion and job creation.”
 
Looking Ahead
 
As Jones County continues to build on its success, the community eagerly anticipates the new business opportunities and economic impact these SiteInvest Premier Properties will bring. With unmatched infrastructure, strategic location, and support from state and local partners, Jones County is poised for a prosperous future in industrial development.
 

Kick Off Your Career presented by Jones County Career Coaches

POSTED Wednesday, September 11th, 2024

The Jones County Career Coaches proudly hosted the “Kickoff Your Career” event on September 10th at Life Church in Laurel, Mississippi. This professional development event brought together local businesses, community leaders, and high school seniors across Laurel and Jones County to build connections, inspire the students, and prepare the next generation of leaders for successful careers.

A Day Dedicated to Professional Development and Career Exploration

The “Kickoff Your Career” event was designed to help local high school seniors gain valuable insights and practical experience in navigating their career paths. The event provided a dynamic environment where students could explore various career opportunities, interact with industry professionals, and enhance essential soft skills.

Throughout the day, attendees participated in a financial literacy session, resume critiquing, and networking sessions with representatives from diverse industries. These sessions aimed to provide students with hands-on experience and practical advice for entering the workforce. The event’s focus on skill-building and real-world application made it invaluable for all who attended.

Connecting Students with Local Industry Leaders

A significant highlight of the “Kickoff Your Career” event was the involvement of local industry leaders and vendors who shared their expertise and insights with students. Participation demonstrated the wide range of career paths in Jones County, from manufacturing and healthcare to education and finance.

These local employers offered students a unique opportunity to learn about different fields, understand the skills and qualifications required, and explore potential career paths. The event’s networking opportunities allowed students to make meaningful connections that could shape their careers.

The Role of Jones County Career Coaches

The Jones County Career Coaches help guide students through career exploration activities and provide personalized coaching sessions. These sessions focus on identifying each student’s strengths, interests, and career goals, ensuring they receive tailored advice on the next steps in their educational and professional journeys.

By working closely with the students, the Career Coaches helped bridge the gap between education and employment, equipping young talent with the tools they need to succeed in today’s competitive job market.

Community Support for Workforce Development

The “Kickoff Your Career” event was a true community effort, demonstrating the strong spirit of collaboration that defines Jones County. We are grateful to Life Church for providing a welcoming venue and to all the participating businesses for their commitment to investing in our future workforce.

The involvement of local businesses and organizations is vital to our mission of fostering economic growth and workforce development in Jones County. Supporting events like “Kickoff Your Career,” our community partners are critical in preparing high school seniors for the professional world.