At a time when the nation’s economy seems to be struggling, Harrison County, Mississippi and its five municipalities are experiencing positive economic growth, solid employment numbers and economic stability. Nationwide, 62,000 jobs were cut during the month of June as a repercussion of the slowing national economy. However, Gulfport, Mississippi’s second largest city, is anticipating job growth and has been ranked as 8th best in the nation in terms of employment numbers through the next quarter by the Manpower Employment Outlook Survey.
Harrison County’s economic outlook is still on an upward swing and is expected to continue on a positive note for the next several months. With new businesses locating like Soprema, existing industries expanding such as Seemann Composites, and commercial announcements like the $100 million dollar shopping complex in D’Iberville, the Promenade, business development in Harrison Country continues to move forward.
In tourism development, two new hotels, Marriott Residence Inn and Hilton Garden Inn, have opened next to the Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport, which recently underwent a $100 million expansion and renovation. Casinos across the Mississippi Gulf Coast have seen $116.6 million in gaming revenues, the largest June numbers since opening.
In addition, Harrison County ranks #2 in Mississippi in population, civilian labor force and number of employed workers; and the Gulfport-Biloxi MSA had a 2.3% increase in Civilian Labor Force from May 2007 to May 2008.
State officials believe that even though demanding economic times are predicted, Mississippi is fully prepared to withstand whatever hardships may come. State Treasurer Tate Reeves echoed that sentiment when he said that Mississippi is in a good position to deal with these challenges because of revenue growth and job creation over the last five years.
