Mar 18, 2021

Lake project still a possibility for Pearl River County

After 20 plus years of talks, Pearl River County could be making the leap into a recreational lake being put in place in the county. In what could be one of his final acts on behalf of Pearl River County before he starts a job with the Hancock County Port and Harbor Commission, Economic Development Director Blaine Lafontaine presented an Economic Impact study on the proposed Pearl River County Lake project.

The lake would encompass 875 acres on Savannah-Millard Road, just off of I-59 at exit 19, would have a huge impact on the county’s economy. Lafontaine’s proposal shows between 101,000 to 152,000 visitors per year would likely come to the lake and surrounding area, bringing in $3.79 million to $5.69 million in annual revenue to the county.

The proposed lake development would include cabins, camping, walking trails, swimming areas, boating, fishing, and businesses catering to visitors. Not only would the economy see an instant boost, but long term jobs associated with the park could number between 67 and 101 employees. While no residential development would occur within the park itself, the surrounding area would most likely see single family homes and neighborhoods spring up to enjoy the lake.

While this is all still in the early stages, this proposal will be shown to the Army Corps of Engineers in hopes of receiving the permit required to start the process of moving this from the planning stage to construction.