The Jackson County Bicycle, Pedestrian and Trails Master Plan (32MB) was a collaborative effort made possible with the help of committee members appointed by, and as representatives of, the County and Cities of Gautier, Moss Point, Ocean Springs, and Pascagoula, and the Gulf Regional Planning Commission.
The committee worked together to create a clear and united vision for walking, bicycling and paddling throughout Jackson County. They assisted in the development of the preliminary scope of work and provided input throughout the process to ensure the Plan encompassed each City's uniqueness based on presented opportunities, desires and constraints. The network plans take into consideration existing and planned facilities, land use requirements/restrictions, areas with greatest demand/use potential, and public input collected from community workshops that were held in November 2017 and February 2018.
The overall goal of the Bicycle, Pedestrian and Trails Master Plan is to identify clear short and long term priorities, tools, programs and policies that County and City officials can use to transform Jackson County into a safe bicycle and pedestrian friendly community.
Gresham, Smith and Partners was hired to facilitate the study and design a plan that met the goals. This $114,300 project was funded through Federal Surface Transportation Program (STP) Funds with a 20% match from the County. In its role as the MS Gulf Coast Metropolitan Planning Organization, Gulf Regional Planning Commission allocated the funds for the project.
The study was completed and presented to the Board of Supervisors and municipalities in November 2018.