Pearl River Revitalization
The Pearl River Revitalization Project proposes a modern approach to managing flood risk by widening the river and improving its ability to safely convey floodwaters. Beyond flood protection, the project is designed to support public access, parks and trails, and ecological restoration along the river corridor. The project also creates opportunities for recreation, environmental health, and community connection while reducing future flood impacts.
The Pearl River Flood Control Project is Officially Moving Forward
Following decades of study and advocacy, the Rankin-Hinds Pearl River Flood and Drainage Control District, in coordination with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and federal partners, has advanced the Pearl River Flood Control Project. This milestone reflects regional collaboration and sustained public engagement, including the efforts of the Pearl River Revitalization Coalition and community advocates, to strengthen flood protection, resilience, and long-term opportunity across the Jackson metro region.
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Pearl River Revitalization Coalition Applauds the Corps of Engineers' Selection of Long-Awaited Flood Control Solution
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‘Today is finally happening’: Corps signs off on Pearl River flood control plan
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Rankin-Hinds Flood District Announce Pearl River Flood Risk Management Project Alternative Selection
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Jackson Leaders Form Pearl River Revitalization Coalition to Combat Flooding, Improve Infrastructure, and Connect the City to River
FAQs
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The Pearl River Revitalization Coalition (PRRC) is in support of the Alternative D1 Solution because it offers a comprehensive flood control solution, investment in modern infrastructure, opportunities for public access to the river, and a collective city-wide identity. The coalition is made up of 20 organizations including the city and county government, colleges and universities, hospitals, economic development institutions, neighborhood and community partners.
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Members of the Pearl River Revitalization Coalition Include: Rankin-Hinds Pearl River Flood and Drainage Control District, City of Jackson, Hinds County, Rankin County, Greater Jackson Chamber of Commerce, Visit Jackson, Downtown Jackson Partners, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson State University, Tougaloo College, Millsaps College, Mississippi College, Belhaven University, Hinds Community College, Greater Belhaven Foundation, Great City Mississippi Foundation, Jackson Heart Foundation, Fondren Renaissance Foundation, MS Children’s Museum, Mississippi Museum of Art, C Spire Foundation, Jackson Medical Mall Foundation, Ergon Foundation, LeFleur East Foundation, Clean Up Jackson
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After the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers makes a final decision on the direction of the flood control solution, members of the Pearl River Revitalization Coalition will initiate a series of design charrettes aimed at prioritizing community engagement. These collaborative sessions will focus on gathering input from residents to ensure that the project reflects collective goals, addresses community needs, and incorporates desired amenities. By fostering an inclusive dialogue, the coalition seeks to develop a flood control strategy that not only enhances safety but also provides long-term benefits for everyone in the city, ultimately contributing to the revitalization of The Pearl River area.
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The opposition to the Pearl River Project primarily comes from environmental groups who have claimed that the project would harm the environment along the Pearl River. Those concerns ignore the fact that the Pearl River, as it runs through Jackson, is not a natural river. The Corps straightened the river in the 1960s when the current levee system was built. To the extent that previous versions of the project, particularly "The One Lake Project," impacted wetlands or other habitats, the Alternative D1 plan has been designed with a much smaller project footprint, aiming to minimize environmental disruption while still addressing the project’s goals. This more focused approach, along with extensive mitigation plans, reflects a commitment to ecological preservation and seeks to alleviate concerns raised in earlier initiatives.
Other concerns were raised about how the project would harm downstream communities. The latest report from the Corps confirms what several studies by the local flood control district have also found – downstream effects will be minimal if at all. The Corps specifically states there will be “no impacts to the State of Louisiana or the Gulf Coast” and impacts south of the project are “highly unlikely.”
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Once constructed, the riverfront property will be owned by the Rankin Hinds Pearl River Flood and Drainage Control District, a public body made up of the mayors of Jackson, Flowood, Pearl and Richland and representatives of Hinds and Rankin Counties. Large portions of that land will be restricted to natural habitat and public recreational uses (trails, parks, etc). Some parts will be available for economic development, but those parcels will be owned by the public Flood Control District and leased or sold to developers. The Pearl River Revitalization Coalition will initiate a series of design charrettes aimed at prioritizing community engagement in how those land use decisions are made. These collaborative sessions will focus on gathering input from residents to ensure that the project reflects collective goals, addresses community needs, and incorporates desired amenities.
What is the history of major flood events in Jackson?
Over the past four decades, the city of Jackson has unfortunately experienced a series of recurring and detrimental flood events. These significant disasters have resulted in damages totaling over a billion dollars, impacting countless residents and leading to the loss of numerous homes and businesses. Additionally, these floods have overwhelmed local water treatment facilities, causing them to fail in their critical functions. To gain a deeper understanding of the historic events that catalyzed the urgent need for better flood control measures, continue reading.
The US Army Corps of Engineers has announced a final EIS for the Pearl River Flood Control Project.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has officially released the final Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the Pearl River Flood Control Project, outlining a revised flood risk management plan for the Pearl River Basin and clearing the path forward for a safer, more vibrant future in Jackson. The Pearl River Revitalization Coalition announces its strong support for the findings related to the Alternative D1 plan presented by the Mississippi Valley Division, Regional Planning and Environment Division South.
News & Events
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US Army Corps approves Pearl River flood control project
WJTV, February 26, 2026
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Pearl River flood control project promises new opportunities for Jackson
WAPT, February 26, 2026
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Washington bureaucracy must stand aside and let America build
The Hill, August 25, 2025
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New environmental plan would widen Pearl River to create positive impact & waterfront opportunities
WAPT, July 3, 2025
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Jackson coalition rallies behind Pearl River flood control project
Clarion Ledger, August 29, 2024
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Pearl River Revitalization Coalition forms supporting flood control plan
WLBT3, August 28, 2024
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New coalition looks to reimagine Jackson’s connection to Pearl River
Magnolia Tribune, December 24, 2024
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WATCH: Flooded three times, Jackson resident still stuck in flood zone
Clarion Ledger, February 11, 2021