The National Park Service has designated Downtown Pascagoula as a historic district. The Downtown Pascagoula Historic District, known historically as the Scranton Historic District, is roughly bounded by Krebs Avenue, Pascagoula Street, Convent Avenue, and Frederic Street.
“Honoring our history is of the utmost importance as it is the foundation on which this community was built. The designation of the Downtown Pascagoula Historic District will be of assistance in preserving our heritage for future generations,” said Liz Ford, member of the Pascagoula Historic Preservation Commission.
While the historic district serves to honor and preserve Pascagoula’s history, it will also aid in the revitalization of the area. Buildings that are contributing to the district are now eligible for historic tax credits. The federal government offers a 20% credit for the rehabilitation of historic structures used for income-producing purposes. The State of Mississippi offers a 25% credit for the rehabilitation of historic structures used for income-producing purposes.
“We have been seeing a tremendous amount of growth in Downtown Pascagoula,” said City Manager Michael Silverman. “Designating Downtown a historic district is extremely beneficial from an economic development standpoint as it further incentivizes developers to choose Pascagoula.”
Of the 84 properties that make up the Downtown Pascagoula Historic District, 53 are considered contributing and eligible for tax credits.