Video: Leaders Continue Discussion About Columbus’ Island Developments

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COLUMBUS, Miss. (WCBI)- It’s back to the drawing board to figure out what to do with the 7 acres of land on Columbus Island that belongs to the county.

“What we’re trying to do is make sure that we have everybody sitting at the table who will have skin in the game and we’re on the right course as we proceed to develop the island,” said Island Development Committee.

City and County leaders held their second meeting Wednesday morning. Columbus city planner Christina Berry suggested developing a master plan, giving residents a generic view of the committee’s plans.

” Transportation is going to be one of the major issues that we focus on. Getting people in and out so that will be one of the things that come out of the master plan. For instance, what this transportation quarter needs to look like: two lanes? Four lanes? One lane? Or how to make it feasible for traffic to come in and out. We want a long term investment that the residents of the city and the county can enjoy,” said Berry.

Tony Carley owns property on the island and also brought his ideas to the table.

“Residential Development is what we’re looking for. Back long ago, the city said that’s what they would like to see on the riverfront so that’s what I’m looking for,” said Carley.

Carley thinks building a residential community will help the property. Part of the island is located on a flood way, but Carley doesn’t think that will be a problem.

“Everything that’s done over there is done with an engineer. Everything has to be documented so there’s no worries about that,” said Carley.

Committee members will hold another meeting before holding a public hearing. Columbus residents shared their ideas on what they would like to see.

“Specialty shops and an ice cream parlor and I think it would be neat to walk across the bridge, get your ice cream, walk back and you’d have burnt up a few calories,” said Ruth Stokes.

“If they could put a little waterfall, park down there that will give the kids somewhere to play and little basketball court or skating rink, swimming pool. Just for the kids to have something to do to relax their minds,” said Eddie Coley.

Officials plan to set a date for a committee meeting and a public hearing soon.

If you have any ideas on what you like to see on the island, contact LeRoy Brooks at (662) 329-5871 or email him at lclbrooks@bellsouth.net