VISIT JACKSON UNVEILS PROJECT TO ENHANCE JACKSON DOWNTOWN CONVENTION AND CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICTS

Visit Jackson has announced an initiative to revitalize the Jackson Downtown Convention and Central Business Districts, enhancing the City With Soul's appeal and economic prospects.

In a press conference held outside the Jackson Convention Complex today, leaders detailed plans on the eve of this week's Southeastern Tourism Society's annual conference that will bring 300 attendees downtown.

"First impressions matter," said Visit Jackson President and CEO Dr. Rickey Thigpen. "The JCC's visual appeal influences event organizers' decisions, driving economic benefits. Our project aims to attract tourists, residents, and businesses alike, boosting revenue for the city. But we're not limited to the JCC's walls: we'll beautify surroundings and pathways, making Jackson more appealing to large events."

Noticeably, many of the curbs and parking meters on Farish Street between Capitol Street and the JCC have been painted "City With Soul" purple, large banners have been hung and sidewalk graphics have been applied to indicate the route between one of the host hotels for this week's conference, the Hilton Garden Inn Downtown.

"Our mission is to make Downtown Jackson, clean, safe and bustling," said John Gomez, President of Downtown Jackson Partners. "We recognize the importance of aesthetics to our community and wholeheartedly welcome the opportunity to partner with Visit Jackson and the city on these beautification efforts."

Visit Jackson says that walkability and security matter, and they're working with city leaders to maintain sidewalks and pathways and add lighting and surveillance improvements. The project is also an opportunity to work with community partners to accomplish the effort.

"This is what collective ambition looks like," said Thigpen. "We want to thank our city leadership and our local law enforcement partners, our state of Mississippi Leadership, the Hinds County Board of Supervisors and Economic Development, Jackson Redevelopment Authority, the Greater Jackson Chamber Partnership, the Westin Jackson, the Historic Hilton Garden Inn, Capitol Street Business Partners, the Capital City Convention Commission, and Downtown Jackson Partners."

About Visit Jackson

Visit Jackson is the official destination leadership organization for the city of Jackson. The organization serves Jackson by positively impacting the city's economy by recruiting and procuring meetings and tourism activities.