Natchez Readies for Economic Growth with New Infrastructure Investments

The landscape of economic development is shifting, particularly in Natchez, Mississippi, where significant investments are transforming the area into a prime location for businesses. Local leaders, including Chandler Russ, executive director of Natchez, Inc., have recognized and adapted to the evolving demands of industry recruitment, emphasizing the necessity for sites that are “shovel-ready” and present minimal risk.

Communities now face the challenge of transitioning from traditional land offerings, such as farmland or undeveloped lots, to fully prepared sites equipped for immediate construction. This transition comes at a steep cost. Over the past decade, states like Mississippi and Louisiana have invested approximately $200 million in infrastructure and site readiness for public industrial sites, a clear indication of the heightened competition for new business investments.

Infrastructure Developments Enhance Economic Prospects

Recognizing the need for these advancements, Natchez, Inc. has collaborated with various partners, including Adams County, the City of Natchez, and the Mississippi Development Authority (MDA). Their mission has been to minimize risk associated with site development while avoiding undue financial strain on local communities. For instance, a critical investment of $7 million was made to construct a levee and interior drainage system on the Belwood property. This infrastructure was essential to prepare the site for potential business investments, as flooding risks would deter companies from investing in such areas.

The funding for this project came from multiple sources, including $2 million from the MDA, $2.2 million from the Delta Regional Authority, and contributions from the Mississippi Legislature and Velocys. This initiative was completed in November 2023 without utilizing any local tax dollars, highlighting a successful collaborative effort to enhance local economic prospects.

The former International Paper site, now known as the Mississippi River Energy Complex (MREC), is another focal point for development. The site has already attracted over $70 million in investments and currently employs more than 100 individuals. Further efforts are underway to prepare additional acreage for development, primarily through concrete removal. Recently, Natchez, Inc. secured a $740,000 Site Development Grant from the MDA to develop 40 acres, with an additional $3.5 million awarded for further site readiness.

Commitment to Renewable Energy and Power Needs

The region’s commitment to attracting renewable energy and fuel projects remains strong, given its strategic location along the Mississippi River and proximity to essential chemical suppliers. Local leaders acknowledge the risks associated with these projects, but they emphasize a proactive approach to evaluating future opportunities. Notably, Natchez, Inc. and Adams County have not incurred financial losses with previous ventures, even when some startups did not succeed, such as Kior and Elevance.

As Natchez, Inc. moves forward, the focus also extends to ensuring sufficient electric power capacity for industrial needs. The organization has faced challenges in maintaining utility services in the past, including the threat of losing rail and natural gas service. The current concern regarding electric power availability underscores the importance of addressing infrastructure needs to support future growth.

Reflecting on his tenure, Chandler Russ celebrated 15 years with Natchez, Inc. this month. He expressed his dedication to the community and his commitment to fostering economic development, stating, “Serving my hometown—working alongside people I deeply respect—and seeing real, measurable progress has been one of the greatest honors of my life.”

As Natchez continues to evolve, the focus on shovel-ready sites and necessary infrastructure investments positions the area as an attractive destination for future business opportunities.