Preliminary construction of the downtown Pass Christian parking lot is in its second week as initial excavation has been completed and drainage is being installed.
The Pass Christian Board of Alderman moved forward with construction after apealing the Historic Preservation Commission’s decision to deny approval of the parking lot and the opposition of some residents, including adjacent neighbors, Jeffrey and Amy Steiner.
“It’s moving right along,” said Pass Christian Mayor Chipper McDermott. “Drainage is going on right now.”
Henry Laird, Jr., attorney for the Steiners, has appealed to chancery court to stop the building of the parking lot. He anticipates a court date in January. He also has an appeal in circuit court with an expected court date in February.
“I am stunned by the arrogance of the city going against the Historic Preservation Commission and the public,” said Laird. “If we prevail, the city is going to have to restore the parking lot to what it was before construction, at the expense of the city.”
The parking lot is located just north of Scenic Drive and east of Davis Avenue.
McDermott said that the parking lot should be completed in approximately two more weeks.
