LONG BEACH, Miss. (WLOX) \u2014 Long Beach\u2019s multi-million dollar Gateway Project is just a few weeks from completion, according to Mayor Tim Pierce.<\/p>\n
Last month, the developers behind the project pitched a new idea for the harbor\u2019s east side \u2014 a mixed-use development with retail, food trucks and more.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhen they came to us with the proposal, I thought it was a great idea,\u201d Pierce said.<\/p>\n
The current plan allows airstream trailers to be set up and used for retail space with additional spots for food trucks, a playground and bathrooms. Mayor Pierce and developers say the additions will further the goal of the harbor project.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe want something that is going to pull people in and keep them there for the day,\u201d Pierce said. \u201cSo, this is a good way that we felt that we could really tie it right back into Gateway and eventually into Jeff Davis.\u201d<\/p>\n
Bellamare Development returned to City Hall to further discuss the project with the Board of Aldermen.<\/p>\n
\u201cRenderings and ideas that have been presented to date still have some layers to be fleshed out and taken further,\u201d said Christian Preus, principal at CPLA. \u201cSo, this is just the beginning of the conversation.\u201d<\/p>\n
After the meeting, the mayor and board agreed to pursue the project. The city will now explore what a potential lease with the developers would look like.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe intent is for this beach to be a destination for the city of Long Beach \u2014 a waterfront, if you will,\u201d Preus said. \u201cI see it as a really hidden gem on the Gulf Coast, and will hopefully be used, not just by citizens of Long Beach, but people that are driving up and down Highway 90 that see this maybe for the first time as we\u2019re beginning to put the finishing touches on it.\u201d<\/p>\n
Opportunities for public input on the project will be available at a later date.<\/p>\n