JRA receives $2.1 million from Cong. Bennie Thompson for renovations at Jackson Union Station in ‘The City with Soul’

By Jackie Hampton,
Publisher,

A press conference was held Monday, Jan. 8, at the Union Station, 300 West Capitol Street, at 11 a.m. in Jackson, where Congressman Bennie Thompson (D-MS Dist., 2) presented Jackson Redevelopment Authority a $2.1 million check for renovations of Jackson Union Station.

JRA Board President Alex Lawson shared a tale of renewal, hope and transformation in the city where college students and others could receive reliable transportation as needed. He gave appreciation to Congressman Thompson whom he said gave priority to this project which led to the initial $2.1 million which unlocked doors to other government and private industry providing funding as well.

Thompson said he was very excited to be a part of bringing this historical hub back to the city. “Everyone cannot afford to get on an airplane, don’t have an automobile to travel and this is a clear viable option for those seeking and needing transportation,” Thompson said.

Thompson said this facility also has the opportunity to lure businesses in this area such as restaurants. “It’s important but can only survive if the community supports it. The partnerships which JRA has established has given me hope that this facility can be the best transportation model in the state of Mississippi.”

In the words of Jackie Gleason about the check, Thompson said, “How Sweet it Is.”

He stated as JRA continues to make plans, he wants his office to be a part of the partnership. He said, “The JRA commissioners have done a tremendous job in taking over this facility and also breathing not just life but hope in a part of Jackson that desperately needs it.”

Regional Vice President of Greyhound, Gilda Brewton, said, “I want to express my gratitude to Chairman Lawson and the JRA team that worked so hard in bringing life back to this location.”

Team members attending with Chairman Lawson included JRA Commissioner Brian Washington; JRA Commissioner Lemia Jenkins; JRA Administrative Analyst Denise Drake; JRA Project Manager Consultant Cleophus Amerson III; and JRA FUSE Executive Fellow, Yolanda R. Owens.

Appearing with Vice President Brewton were Jeffrey Bell, Greyhound ticket agent; Tasha Ellis, Greyhound state manager and Amos Campbell, Greyhound bus driver from Houston, Texas.

Brewton thanked Congressman Thompson for working tirelessly for his constituents. “He wants to make sure they have transportation in this city,” she said.