The property linked to Jackson’s bribery scandal will transform into a community park featuring pickleball courts and more
This project, called “The Pulse at Farish Street,” was announced by Jhai Keeton, the planning director, during a press conference. It’s been a long time coming, as the city has been trying to develop this 7.75-acre site since 2008.
If you’re from Jackson, you probably know this spot. It made headlines back in November 2024 when Mayor Chokwe Antar Lumumba and others were indicted for allegedly taking bribes from developers interested in building a hotel there. They all pleaded not guilty to multiple felony charges.
Just last week, Lumumba mentioned that getting this property developed is a top priority before his term ends in July. After years of stalled plans, they expect work on the park to kick off in April or May.
Keeton shared more details about the project, which will unfold in three phases. The first phase focuses on the community park, while the second will add a vendor park for food trucks, a skate park, and those pickleball courts. The final phase will involve building a parking lot, which has been used informally for visitors.
Even though the dream of a convention center hotel is still alive, this park development is seen as a crucial step for future projects. The budget for the park is set at $2.4 million, with $1.5 million already approved by the city council. They’re still figuring out where the rest of the funds will come from.
The community park is projected to bring in $800,000 in its first year. Exciting times ahead for Jackson!
