City mayors expect major economic development from West Rankin Parkway – WLBT

Report on the Opening of West Rankin Parkway and Its Alignment with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

Introduction

On November 25, the West Rankin Parkway officially opened in Rankin County, Mississippi, significantly reducing travel time between Flowood and Pearl to approximately five minutes. This new infrastructure connects Highway 80 in Pearl to Flowood Drive in Flowood, spanning a large tract of land.

Impact on Community Connectivity and Sustainable Cities (SDG 11)

Flowood Mayor Kathy Smith emphasized the parkway’s role in enhancing community connectivity. The reduced travel distance fosters a stronger sense of community by making it easier to travel between cities.

• Improved urban mobility
• Enhanced access between neighboring cities
• Promotion of sustainable urban development

Economic Development and Industry Potential (SDG 8 & SDG 9)

The parkway is expected to stimulate significant economic development, particularly in industrial sectors. Mayor Smith highlighted the availability of approximately 1,000 acres of land with advantageous features such as rail access and proximity to an interstate highway, which is rare and valuable for industrial growth.

1. Potential for large-scale industrial projects
2. Creation of new job opportunities in Central Mississippi
3. Support for sustainable economic growth and infrastructure development

Collaborative Efforts for Regional Development (SDG 17)

Pearl Mayor Jake Windham shared a vision for major developments in the area, aiming to bring employment opportunities to the region. Although the city does not own the land, strong partnerships with landowners and local authorities, including Rankin First and the board of supervisors, are driving efforts to spur development.

• Collaboration between city officials and landowners
• Active involvement of economic development organizations
• Community engagement and anticipation for future projects

Community Feedback and Future Outlook

Both mayors reported positive feedback from residents regarding the new parkway and expressed optimism about its future impact on the region’s connectivity and economic prosperity.

Conclusion

The opening of the West Rankin Parkway represents a significant advancement towards achieving multiple Sustainable Development Goals, including sustainable cities and communities (SDG 11), decent work and economic growth (SDG 8), industry, innovation, and infrastructure (SDG 9), and partnerships for the goals (SDG 17). This infrastructure project is poised to enhance regional connectivity, stimulate economic development, and foster collaborative efforts for sustainable growth in Central Mississippi.

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed

1. SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
   • The article highlights economic development potential and job creation in Central Mississippi.
2. SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
   • The construction of the West Rankin Parkway improves infrastructure connectivity between cities.
   • Access to rail and interstate supports industrial development.
3. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
   • The parkway enhances community connectivity and reduces travel time, improving urban mobility.

2. Specific Targets Under the Identified SDGs

1. SDG 8 Targets
   • Target 8.2: Achieve higher levels of economic productivity through diversification, technological upgrading, and innovation.
   • Target 8.5: Achieve full and productive employment and decent work for all.
2. SDG 9 Targets
   • Target 9.1: Develop quality, reliable, sustainable, and resilient infrastructure to support economic development.
   • Target 9.2: Promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and increase the industry’s share of employment and GDP.
3. SDG 11 Targets
   • Target 11.2: Provide access to safe, affordable, accessible, and sustainable transport systems for all.
   • Target 11.3: Enhance inclusive and sustainable urbanization and capacity for participatory planning.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied to Measure Progress

1. Travel Time Reduction
   • The article mentions the reduction of travel time between Flowood and Pearl to about five minutes, implying an indicator measuring average commute or travel time.
2. Economic Development and Job Creation
   • Indicators related to the number of new jobs created in the area and industrial development activity.
   • Land utilization for industrial purposes (e.g., development of the 1,000 acres with rail and interstate access).
3. Infrastructure Development
   • Indicators measuring the construction and connectivity of transport infrastructure such as new roads, rail access, and interstates.
4. Community Connectivity and Satisfaction
   • Resident feedback and perceptions of improved community connectivity and ease of travel.

4. Table of SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: wlbt.com