Economic development: It’s all about good sites, available infrastructure

August 1, 2014

During a recent economic development workshop, an economic developer proclaimed to me, "economic development is all about relationships." While it's true that fostering good relationships is a necessary part of any business, I would argue that economic development is, first and foremost, all about good development sites and the availability of adequate infrastructure. July's newsletter is intended to give readers a glimpse of the incredible industrial sites and infrastructure that exist in Hancock County today. From our 3,600­acre industrial park, our five miles of 12 ft. draft canals and our short line railroad, to our 1,700­acre airport and airpark featuring an 8,500­foot grooved and lighted runway, Hancock County has the sites and infrastructure to suit virtually any industrial need. This month we feature Calgon Carbon, an industrial company operating in Port Bienville since 1992. Port Bienville's unique infrastructure has allowed Calgon Carbon to grow steadily throughout their 23­year history in Hancock County, as they and their service providers now operate around­the­clock barge operations in the port and an expansive industrial facility in the industrial park. Also this month, we feature an article about Port Bienville's unique electrical capacity, with more than 45 megawatts of excess capacity currently existing along the transmission system ­ enough electricity to power Hancock County's growing industrial base well into the future. Stennis International Airport also grabs headlines this month with the completion of its 125­acre dropzone, which will support both national and international military training exercises, solidifying Stennis International Airport's role as one of the region's most important assets for Department of Defense operations. With the wide variety of industrial infrastructure available in Hancock County, it's no wonder that a host of new companies are taking notice of our county and all it has to offer On behalf of the entire team at the Hancock County Port and Harbor Commission, we want to thank all of you for your continuing efforts to make Hancock County the premier place to do business in South Mississippi. We look forward to continuing to partner with you as we take Hancock County to new economic horizons and beyond. 

#Military, #Port Bienville Industrial Park