Workforce

Within a day's drive of Lauderdale County, you will find 55 percent of all United States major population centers. There are at least five institutions of higher education within a 60 mile radius of Meridian. Each institution offers a variety of academic programs that work together with the business community to fulfill the present and future needs of companies in the area. Services such as computer classes, advanced skill training, certification training, safety training, management training, quality training, and the East Mississippi Public Safety Institute are provided for specific industries and businesses. Funding for such programs is provided by the State of Mississippi.

Mississippi Power Company and the EMBDC recently contracted with The Pathfinders of Dallas, TX to conduct an under-employment study. Two studies were completed in January of 2008, one for a 45-mile radius of Meridian and another for a 65-mile radius. The results concluded the following regarding available workforce:

Within the 45 mile radius, about 25% of the underemployed workers (1,300) would take a new job for $10.67 per hour or less while within the 65 mile radius 25% (3,325) would take a new job for $11.25 per hour or less.

Sites & Buildings

Use the LocationOne Building Database to find available industrial, commercial, office, or retail space.

Location

Recognized as the center of East Mississippi and West Alabama, Meridian is located within 1 day’s drive of 55% of the US Population at the intersection of two major interstates: I-20 and I-59 and five US highways: Hwy 80 (soon to be I85), Hwy 45, Hwy 39, Hwy 11 and Hwy 19. For 5 years running, a nationally recognized logistics consulting firm, Chicago Consulting has identified Meridian as one of the premier locations for distribution in the Southeast in its Warehouse Network Optimization Survey.

Transportation

Three railroads - Norfolk Southern, KCS, and M&B - intersect in Meridian. Strategically placed to serve the growth of southeastern and southwestern markets, the Meridian/Lauderdale County area provides close proximity to Atlanta, New Orleans, Memphis, and Dallas. Commercial air service to the Meridian area is provided through the Meridian Regional Airport. Its 10,004 foot runway is the longest public use runway in the state and is equipped to accommodate any size aircraft. The Mississippi State Port Authority at Gulfport provides short access to ports and water service. It is located only 160 miles south of Meridian.