Ocean Springs plans 5730-foot pedestrian pathway at East Beach to enhance public access

The Mississippi Advisory Commission on Marine Resources convened on April 17, 2025, to discuss a significant project aimed at enhancing pedestrian access along East Beach in Ocean Springs. The proposed initiative, spearheaded by the city with assistance from Neil Schafer, seeks to construct a 5,730-foot concrete pedestrian pathway, designed to provide a safe route for residents and visitors to enjoy the scenic Davis Bayou and beach area.

The project involves filling coastal wetlands above mean high tide on the existing sand beach, with careful attention to maintaining the elevation of the pathway in line with the surrounding environment. In addition to the pathway, the plan includes the installation of trash receptacles, removal of existing wooden steps, and the relocation of signs and posts. The pathway will extend from Weeks Bayou to Halstead Road, positioned south of the seawall and guardrail.

Public engagement has been a key component of the project’s development. Notifications regarding the project were published in the Sun Herald and on the city’s website, leading to a public hearing held on June 12, 2024, to address community concerns. The commission summarized feedback from the public, which included inquiries about potential increases in foot traffic, trash accumulation, and flooding risks.

In response to these concerns, the project’s agent assured that the pathway is not expected to attract significantly more visitors or vehicles, nor will it lead to increased trash or flooding. The city of Ocean Springs will maintain the pathway and provide trash receptacles to manage waste. Additionally, the design incorporates drainage features to mitigate storm runoff and flooding.

Concerns regarding the structural integrity of the Shearwater Bridge during construction were also addressed. The agent confirmed that the bridge is routinely inspected and will not bear more weight than it has historically managed. The construction will utilize small excavators, dump trucks, and concrete trucks, with a commitment to maintaining equipment and minimizing impacts on surrounding wetland habitats.

The meeting also touched on the implications of sea level rise on the project, particularly at the eastern end of the pathway. The agent indicated that measures are in place to address potential impacts, ensuring the project aligns with environmental considerations.

Overall, the proposed pathway is positioned as a means to enhance public access to Mississippi's tidelines, promoting recreational use while adhering to the Tidelines Act. The commission's discussions highlighted the importance of balancing development with environmental stewardship, ensuring that community needs are met without compromising the integrity of coastal ecosystems. As the project moves forward, ongoing monitoring and community engagement will be essential to address any emerging concerns and ensure its success.