Hancock County Port and Harbor Commission

05/18/2026

At May 11th's Commission meeting, we had the honor of celebrating a major milestone: Susan Garcia’s 25th anniversary with Port Bienville Shortline Railroad!

As the Administrative Assistant for the Port Bienville Shortline Railroad, Susan is the backbone of our railroad operations, providing essential support to the Railroad Manager and ensuring everything stays on track. A proud Hancock County native, Susan’s journey with us began over two decades ago, bringing with her a wealth of experience and a commitment to service that has made her an invaluable part of the team.

Please join us in thanking Susan for 25 years of hard work, dedication, and loyalty to Port Bienville. We are so lucky to have you on the team! 🚂🎉

05/15/2026

On May 11th, Hancock County Port & Harbor Commission hosted the annual Airport Appreciation Luncheon at Stennis International Airport. It was a great opportunity to hear direct updates from Airport Director Austin Jenkins and Executive Director Blaine LaFontaine regarding ongoing growth and future projects.

A huge thank you to Warren Paving for sponsoring the meal, and to all of our tenants for providing the valuable feedback that helps us continue to improve our facilities and services. Together, we’re keeping the momentum going!

05/14/2026

On April 27, 2026, Hancock County Port and Harbor Commission hosted its annual Port Appreciation Luncheon at the McDonald Business Center, bringing together industrial tenants, community leaders, and stakeholders to celebrate the ongoing growth and historical foundation of Port Bienville Industrial Park.

The event featured an update from Executive Director Blaine LaFontaine, who briefed tenants on the current trajectory of the Commission’s projects and infrastructure improvements. Highlighting the luncheon was a special dedication ceremony, where HCPHC officially named its two primary conference rooms at the McDonald Business Center in honor of past Executive Directors Woodrow W. Webre and Hal W. Walters, recognizing their transformative contributions to Hancock County’s industrial landscape.

Read the full release here: https://ow.ly/An5Q50YZMfY

05/13/2026

The Hancock County Port & Harbor Commission is now accepting proposals from qualified planning and consulting firms to complete a full update of the Hancock County Comprehensive Plan.

This effort will help shape a clear vision for Hancock County through 2045 and guide future decisions related to: land use, housing, transportation, economic development, community facilities, parks and recreation, etc.

The selected consultant will work in coordination with both the Hancock County Board of Supervisors and the Hancock County Port & Harbor Commission throughout the planning process.

Proposal deadline:
Monday, May 18, 2026, at 4:30 p.m.
Written questions deadline:
Friday, April 24, 2026, at 5:00 p.m.

To obtain the full RFP, visit: https://ow.ly/yMhh50YJ3n7

Questions should be submitted by email to:
[email protected]
228-467-9231

05/07/2026

Stennis International Airport is pleased to announce it has been awarded a $1.5 million grant from the Strategic Multi-Modal Investments Fund (SMIF). These funds are designated for significant facility upgrades to Hangars 3 and 4, furthering the airport’s goal of strengthening its position as a premier hub for aerospace Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) operations.

Read full release here: https://ow.ly/gpQn50YWk4o

05/05/2026

05/04/2026

Hancock County Port & Harbor Commission is pleased to announce $4 million in GOMESA funding for the complete reconstruction of Dock C at Port Bienville Industrial Park.

Read the release here: https://ow.ly/7klz50YUHCQ

04/30/2026