Hiller Park to Get Some Much Needed Sprucing Up

Councilwoman for Ward 3, Dixie Newman, feels Biloxi’s Hiller Park is a hidden gem that needs a little sprucing up.

Hiller Park was once a premier hangout in Biloxi, but over the last few decades, years of neglect have begun to take their toll and people have been staying away. Newman says, "A lot of people are hesitant because it does get dark early and we’ve had crime in the past and that leaves a bad taste in people’s mouths."

Newman wants to bring the life and the light back to this coastal landmark and has partnered with a local group who specializes in lights, Mississippi Power. Bill Snyder, spokesperson for Mississippi Power, says, "Hiller Park is a terrific part of the area, a terrific part of the community, and we’re excited to have this partnership to help out."

Lights are nice, but this is just the first of many upgrades to come. Newman also says, "Next on the agenda would be new bathrooms, a splash pad, nature trail, all kinds of things."

This first step toward improving Hiller Park will not only light up the night, but it will also save the city money and require very little maintenance. Snyder also says, "The new LED lights use 75% less energy than regular lights, but yet they last 25 times longer, so the benefits are there."

Snyder, just like many other long time locals, have good memories of Hiller Park and look forward to its recovery. Newman closes, "It really could be the Central Park of Biloxi. The city’s just let it go to ruins and being able to revive it, people are getting very excited about it."

Crews worked all morning installing the first of the new lights, and according to Mississippi Power, it won’t be long until Hiller Park can look forward to a bright future.