The Jones County EDA Career Coaches have begun a summer “Career Camp” with the Laurel Housing Authority students. Coaches Collyn Leggett and Kalyn Patterson began their first session by teaching “How to Write a High School Resume.” The students participated in an interactive presentation, a resume brainstorming activity, and had time to craft a high school resume. The Coaches hosted the students at the Laurel Airport on Wednesday afternoon, July 3rd, 2025. This workshop will prepare the Laurel Housing Authority students to make confident strides into their careers and will continue to build upon their professional skills throughout the summer.
Two Jones County Properties Earn SiteInvest Designation
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.