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Mayor Thompson announces over $47 million in state funding for Vicksburg and Warren County
VICKSBURG, Miss. (VDN) — Mayor Willis Thompson today announced that more than $47 million in state funding has been awarded to support infrastructure, tourism, and economic development priorities across Vicksburg and Warren County during the 2026 Mississippi Legislative Session. The funding represents a significant investment in the future of the community and reflects strong collaboration between local leadership and state officials in Thompson’s first year in office.
“These investments are a direct result of strong partnerships, real action, and a shared commitment to responsibly move Vicksburg forward,” Thompson said. “We’re seeing real results from working closely with our state legislative delegation, the Lieutenant Governor, and the Governor to deliver meaningful progress for our community. This is how we’re already beginning to build a safer, stronger, and smarter Vicksburg.”
The funding package includes major allocations across economic development, infrastructure, and tourism:
• $40,000,000 for the Vicksburg National Military Park Interpretive Center Project
• $5,000,000 in reallocated funds now toward repairs, overlay, and restriping of portions of Clay Street and Washington Streets
• $2,500,000 to assist with the relocation of Hennessy Bayou for erosion control near the Highway 61 South Port Megasite
• $408,000 for the development of the Vicksburg Blues Highway Travel Center
Thompson emphasized that the scale of the funding reflects confidence in Vicksburg’s current direction and long term potential.
“This level of investment sends a clear message that Vicksburg is moving in the right direction,” Thompson said. “From improving the safety and appearance of some of our city’s most traveled roadways, to strengthening our tourism economy, to advancing development at the new port site, these projects will have a real impact on our economy and quality of life while also generating new tax revenue all while not placing additional burdens on residents.”
The mayor credited Vicksburg and Warren County’s legislative delegation for their leadership and advocacy throughout the session.
“I want to thank our House and Senate members for fighting for our community,” Thompson said. “Their work, along with the partnership of the Lieutenant Governor and Governor, made these major investments possible. By working together, we’ve just delivered real results for the people we serve. And that’s exactly what government should be doing.”
Mayor Thompson also noted that the funding aligns with his administration’s focus on improving core city services, driving economic growth, and positioning Vicksburg as a leading city in Mississippi.
“We’re focused on doing the basics of city government while also thinking bigger about where we’re headed on a local and statewide level,” Thompson said. “This funding helps us do both. It strengthens our foundation and positions us for long term success on multiple fronts. Now the work continues.”
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