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The Harbor
The Small Craft Harbor, which includes Urie Pier and the Fishermen’s village, is located south of US-90 (Beach Boulevard) and includes Jones Park, the largest public park on the Mississippi Gulf Coast.
Hurricane Katrina devastated Small Craft Harbor, including Urie Pier, which was once a popular destination for seaside dining at the White Cap restaurant. Planning and reconstruction, since the storm, has cleared the park of debris, rebuilt Urie Pier and recommended the full redevelopment of the park as a civic amenity working in concert with the activity draw of Small Craft Harbor and Urie Pier.
With adjacency to downtown Gulfport, Small Craft Harbor presents an opportunity for world-class mixed-use activity, including active and passive recreation.
Phase one of the Gulfport Harbor Master Plan proposes the development of a new marina, fisherman’s retail village, a public square and bus stop, boat launch and the redesign of Jones Park.
In addition, proposed mixed-use buildings to the north of Beach Boulevard are designed to reconstitute the southern end of Downtown Gulfport, as well as activate and frame Jones Park.
Sufficient parking is provided along the north and south sides of Jones Park, and along Urie Pier. Ample parking for recreational boat trailers also is included.
City is considering concept designs for a new pavilion, similar to the former Rice Pavilion that stood for many years before the hurricane.
The plan also includes an educational boardwalk and bike/pedestrian path.
Inspired by active and well-loved harbors from around the world, the Small Craft Harbor redevelopment master plan seeks to make Gulfport the premier urban and recreational destination along the Gulf Coast.
The city anticipates work on the current harbor and Jones Park projects to be complete by early 2011, depending on weather conditions. The work should finish up around the same time as a new casino opens near the harbor, which should make for a very exciting time for the City of Gulfport.
To view details of the overall plan, click here.
