Vicksburg Riverfront Park project awarded $1.5 million grant

VICKSBURG, Miss. (VDN) — The Vicksburg Riverfront Park project is one of 28 conservation and outdoor recreation initiatives awarded funding through the Mississippi Outdoor Stewardship Trust Fund (MOSTF). The project will receive $1.5 million of the $13.4 million allocated statewide.

The Warren County Board of Supervisors voted March 3 to approve a bid for the $4 million Riverfront Park construction project, awarding the contract to Wildstone Construction Services Ltd. Construction is expected to begin this summer, according to county engineer Keith O’Keefe.

Gov. Tate Reeves announced on March 13 that the MOSTF Board of Trustees approved the new round of competitive grants during its most recent meeting.

“This is exactly what I envisioned when I signed the Outdoor Stewardship Act into law,” Reeves said. “The MOSTF is benefiting Mississippi communities, supporting jobs, and strengthening our $8 billion outdoor recreation economy, which employs more than 79,000 people.”

The MOSTF operates as a public-private partnership, investing $13.4 million in state funds while securing an additional $25.3 million from private, local, state, and federal sources. This results in a $38.7 million impact on conservation and outdoor recreation projects across Mississippi.

Vicksburg Riverfront Park Development

The Vicksburg Riverfront Park project aims to transform donated land along the Mississippi River into a public park featuring walking trails, picnic areas, and outdoor fitness equipment. Designed to blend with the natural landscape, the park will provide accessible outdoor recreation while minimizing environmental impact and maintenance costs.

The development replaces the former Riverfront Park, which was forced to close due to severe erosion. While the City of Vicksburg has received funding to cover its portion of the project, Warren County is still seeking financial assistance for its share. Officials say MOSTF support is critical to ensuring the park’s successful completion.

MOSTF accepts grant applications annually, with the next application period tentatively set for Aug. 1, 2025, pending funding approval during the 2025 Legislative Session.

For more information, visit https://www.dfa.ms.gov/most.