Hancock County Port & Harbor Commission Awarded $5 Million RESTORE Act Grant for Warehouse Expansion at Port Bienville

December 18, 2025

BAY ST. LOUIS, Miss. – The Hancock County Port & Harbor Commission (HCPHC) has been awarded a $5,000,000 RESTORE Act grant to support the construction of a new 50,000-square-foot warehouse at Site #06 in Port Bienville Industrial Park. This significant investment will enhance the park’s logistics capabilities, expand industrial capacity, and position Hancock County for continued economic growth. The warehouse project will create modern, flexible space designed to support advanced manufacturing and logistics operations and to accommodate future industrial tenants.

Strengthening Industrial Competitiveness

The RESTORE Act grant represents a major step forward in Port Bienville’s long-term development strategy. By increasing available industrial space and strengthening multimodal infrastructure, HCPHC is preparing Port Bienville to attract new employers and meet the growing demands of existing industries.

“This project will enhance Port Bienville’s ability to support high-quality industrial development, improve logistics efficiency, and create new opportunities for business growth across Hancock County. We appreciate this critical investment and remain committed to strengthening the region’s economic competitiveness.”   Blaine LaFontaine, CEO of HCPHC

Building for the Future

Port Bienville Industrial Park is home to a diverse mix of companies in maritime manufacturing, chemical production, composites, and logistics. The new warehouse infrastructure will:

• Expand in-demand warehouse space for industrial prospects.

• Improve supply chain connectivity through enhanced rail access.

• Support tenant growth and future investment.

• Strengthen regional job creation and economic diversification.

Construction of the warehouse will begin after the final design and procurement phases, with HCPHC overseeing the project to ensure long-term operational success.

About Hancock County Port & Harbor Commission

The Hancock County Port & Harbor Commission is the economic development authority for Hancock County, Mississippi, managing Port Bienville Industrial Park, Stennis International Airport, and Stennis Technology Park. HCPHC is dedicated to supporting job creation, workforce development, and long-term industrial and aviation growth across the region.