Pavilion construction underway at Sullivan Park

HATTIESBURG, Miss. - Mayor Toby Barker announces the construction of a permanent pavilion at Sullivan Park in the Palmers Crossing community Friday.

“Today we announce the start of a new project, right here in Ward 5 in Palmer’s Crossing. Construction has now begun on a 50 foot pavilion right here in Sullivan Park,” said Hattiesburg Mayor Toby Barker.

The City, Forrest County Board of Supervisors and local residents gathered Friday morning during the announcement to participate in a groundbreaking ceremony that will start the construction. According to the mayor, once the pavilion is built, it will be the largest pavilion within city limits.

“It will be raised two feet so it can also function as a stage and it will also be handicap accessible. It will include power supply, ceiling fans, picnic tables, trash receptacles, park benches and landscaping,”

It will be completed in five months, “We’ve all worked together for this day, and now that it is coming together lets enjoy it. Lets watch over it and lets use it or the community,” said Rod Woullard, Forrest County Board of Supervisors District 4.

The mayor stated the city's goal is to make sure each neighborhood sees progress.

“No matter where you are in Hattiesburg, you have access to the same infrastructure, the same quality of life amenities and parks, and the same public safety,” Barker said.

$214,535 will be used from the general budget to build the Pavilion. However, tax payers said they are happy to see the money be put to good use.