JACKSON, Miss. - Today, Jackson Redevelopment Authority (JRA), Congressman Bennie Gordon Thompson, and Greyhound Lines Inc., announced a five-year agreement for bus services to return to Jackson's Union Station and outlined plans for structural and safety improvements at Union Station.
JRA and Greyhound, North America's largest intercity bus service, resumed intercity service routes at Jackson's Union Station in December 2023. Over the past month, travelers from Jackson and surrounding communities have had daily access to eastbound and westbound routes, connecting them to Greyhound's network of more than 1,700 destinations nationwide.
“Greyhound is so pleased to resume service to Jackson,” said Gilda Brewton, Regional Vice President for Greyhound. “We are grateful to the JRA for their invaluable help in making this happen. As we begin the new year, Greyhound looks forward to providing convenient, affordable bus travel to the great people of Jackson and surrounding areas.”
Congressman Thompson discussed the historic federal investment of $2 million that will enable JRA to expand the city's transit infrastructure beyond its existing footprint. The expansion includes providing recommendations for station accessibility, redevelopment, and equity planning guidance for active transportation.
"Greyhound is an essential service for many Jacksonians, including workers, students, veterans and active-duty military, and local businesses," said Congressman Bennie Thompson. "This funding will help build infrastructures that boost Jackson's economy while creating a more equitable transportation system throughout the region."
Research from The American Public Transporation Association (ATPA) shows the value of investing in municipal transit infrastructure, with an estimated return on investment of five dollars for every dollar invested. In addition, ATPA research found that “transportation investments support cost savings for transit users and non-users.”
“People are at the center of this announcement–from those who ride the system to workers and local businesses. By providing accessible transportation throughout the Jackson-Metro area, this partnership encourages significant development while creating good-paying jobs for residents of various social, economic, and professional backgrounds,” said JRA Chairman Alex Lawson, Jr. “This renewed partnership is one of many initiatives we are developing across Jackson to improve our city's infrastructure and promote long-term economic growth.”
JRA continues developing and implementing plans to position Union Station as an economic and social boon for downtown Jackson, creating more jobs while increasing access to Mississippi’s capital city, cultural destinations, and local businesses.
