PEARL RIVER COUNTY — Pearl River County’s technology park, located along Runway Road across from the Picayune Municipal Airport, is nearing completion, with only minor construction remaining, according to economic development officials. 

The technology park project, which has been ongoing for 30 years, will offer an opportunity for growth in the county’s aerospace and advanced manufacturing industries. 

Buildings A and B — two 10,000-square-foot shell structures that will allow recruitment of high-tech and aerospace-related industries — are finished, with only minor details being completed. 

One of the final adjustments includes the interior flooring in the buildings, which is currently clay dirt.

This has required a project modification to allow for the addition of a barrier-like covering to help preserve the packing of the clay. The covering will help keep the buildings from collecting dust. 

Pearl River County Economic Development Director Lindsay Ward said the park holds a special place in her heart. 

“It’s a huge opportunity for us,” Ward said. “Our technology park is located within 10 miles of the Stennis Space Center Northgate, and what that means, for us, is that we’re geographically closer with our technology park than any other external economic development entities.” 

The county’s access to the tech park’s innovative approach will allow for more timely and efficient advanced employment opportunities for the community. 

“I think it’s a huge opportunity, not only for Pearl River County and the city of Picayune, but it’s a huge opportunity for any business that wants to do business with Stennis Space Center,” Ward said.