Hattiesburg Planning Commission began talks on zoning for the “Right Down Broadway Master Plan,” a key initiative aimed at revitalizing portions of Broadway Drive and West Pine Street. The plan was adopted by the city council on Jan. 7 and is designed to transform the corridor by expanding residential opportunities, improving design standards and allowing for small-scale artisan production.
As the first step of implementing the initiative, the planning commission discussed the specifics of the Broadway Corridor Overlay District. When the overlay district is put into place, it will allow for additional uses beyond the base zoning of B-3, update the standards for pedestrian safety, streetscapes and facades and increase connectivity with the surrounding neighborhoods and districts.
It is important to note that businesses already established within the corridor will not be subject to the zoning changes until the building or business is either abandoned, redeveloped or changes use.
With the goal of transforming the area into a dynamic, walkable corridor with eased restrictions on small-scale artisan businesses, the city envisions “Hattiesburg’s Creators Corridor” as a gateway into a thriving downtown district.
There will be a draft presentation to the Hattiesburg City Council at the work session on April 7 at 4 p.m. For a full list of proposed amendments in a draft ordinance or to view the “Right Down Broadway Master Plan” visit hattiesburgms.com/broadway.
For community members with comments, concerns or suggestions for the program, the planning commission encourages feedback. The Planning Division can be contacted by phone at (601)545-4599, by email to planning@hattiesburgms.com or by attending the public hearing scheduled for May 7, 2025.
