Diamondhead Town Center Moving Forward

Aloha Diamondhead - August 2024

The first phase of the Town Center development is well underway, particularly on the waterfront. Learn about all the improvements, the progress being made, and what’s in store.

- by Anne Pitre
​Photos courtesy of the City of Diamondhead

The Diamondhead community’s long-anticipated town center is steadily taking shape, with several key milestones achieved over the past year. The ambitious project, spanning a 14-acre site on Noma Drive, promises to be a central hub for residential, commercial, and recreational activities.
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Norma Drive between the roundabout and Park Ten.

The first phase of development, which broke ground in July 2023, primarily focused on infrastructure improvements such as roadway and utility installations. A key highlight of this phase is the Noma Drive waterfront development, which will offer direct access to the Jourdan River. A new boat launch, kayak launch, fishing pier, and bird-watching area are all in the works. In addition to these recreational amenities, the project includes sidewalks, parking areas, a boardwalk, and seating spots – all designed to make the waterfront a community destination.
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New boat launch on Norma Drive.

As of August, 2024, construction continues with notable advancements. The boat launch has been poured, and pilings for the pier and kayak launch were successfully driven into the ground in mid-August. The pier itself is expected to take shape soon, marking an additional significant milestone in this waterfront project.
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Construction in front of the Diamondhead Water & Sewer District building.

Another major development is the extension of Noma Drive to connect with Park Ten and Leisure Time Drive, aimed at improving traffic flow and connectivity throughout the area. This extension is already making progress, with the road partially paved and new sidewalks and lighting installed. This infrastructure upgrade is crucial for supporting future growth in the Diamondhead area, improving access to businesses and local amenities.
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Sidewalks and light poles are being installed on Norma Drive.

In addition to the ongoing work on the waterfront and roadways, the broader vision for the Diamondhead Town Center includes condominiums, restaurants, retail spaces, professional services, and recreational facilities. As part of this mixed-use development, plans are underway for new residential neighborhoods and public gathering spaces designed to foster community engagement and social interaction. 
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Another view of the new sidewalks on Norma Drive.

The town center is expected to host family-friendly play areas, cozy seating zones, and ample public spaces for events, all intended to enhance the quality of life for Diamondhead residents.
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Sign crediting the Mississippi Department of Marine Resources and the Mississippi Outdoor Stewardship Trust for partially funding the waterfront improvements.

Overall, the new Diamondhead Town Center reflects a holistic approach to community development, prioritizing economic growth, environmental sustainability, and social harmony. With its focus on improving infrastructure, increasing connectivity, and providing a vibrant, accessible space for both residents and visitors, Diamondhead’s future is brighter than ever as this transformative project moves forward.
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