The city of Diamondhead is taking steps to enhance its waterfront and downtown infrastructure, with a new boat launch and a revamped Park Ten Road expansion. The $800,000 investment in the new boat launch is expected to provide a quicker route to and from the Mississippi Sound, benefiting both local fishermen and tourists.
- Improved access to the Mississippi Sound
- Enhanced fishing experience
- Accessibility for the disabled
The new 150-foot boardwalk features a fishing pier and a kayak launch, providing a safe and accessible route for users. The pier is designed to accommodate larger boats, such as Wiltz’s 18-foot vessel, while the kayak launch is designed for smaller, more accessible craft. The city’s Public Works Director, Ty Wiltz, is excited about the new facility, saying it will provide a quicker route to the fishing grounds and back. “Great access straight into the Jordan River. It’s very safe. It’s got a large parking area,” he said. The city launched construction on the new boat launch in July, and it is set to open during the second week of May. The project is expected to benefit both local fishermen and tourists, providing a unique and accessible fishing experience.
- Free public boat launch
- Three observation stations for educational purposes
- Parking area for large vehicles
The city’s Public Works Director, Jon McCraw, hopes to see the new boat launch used for educational purposes. “This will be the first public boat launch for the residents to be able to utilize free of charge,” he said. “It’ll have three different observation stations that are 20 feet tall, so you could bring an entire class out and they could observe the marsh and wildlife.”
The new boat launch is just one part of the city’s larger vision for 2040, which includes a revamped Park Ten Road expansion. The two and a half mile long road connects Gex Drive and the Noma Drive roundabout, and is expected to bring new restaurants, retail shops, and homes to the area.
| Project | Description | Cost |
| New Boat Launch | A 150-foot boardwalk with a fishing pier and kayak launch | $800,000 |
| Park Ten Road Expansion | A two and a half mile long road connecting Gex Drive and the Noma Drive roundabout | Estimated cost not specified |
The city’s vision for 2040 includes creating a new area for residential, commercial, and recreational activities. The Park Ten Road expansion is just one part of this vision, and is expected to bring new businesses and amenities to the area.
“I’m excited to see this project come to fruition. It’s going to be a game-changer for our city,” said McCraw.
The pier is set to open during the second week of May, and is expected to provide a unique and accessible fishing experience for residents and tourists alike. The city’s commitment to enhancing its waterfront and downtown infrastructure is expected to bring new life to the area, and provide a better quality of life for its residents.
