Greyhound and JRA Reach Agreement, Thompson Presents Check
January 8, 2024
Jackson Redevelopment Authority (JRA), Congressman Bennie Thompson and Greyhound Lines Inc. have announced a five-year agreement for bus services to return to Jackson's Union Station and outlined plans for structural and safety improvements at Union Station.
Congressman Thompson discussed a historic federal investment of $2 million that will enable JRA to expand the city's transit infrastructure beyond its existing footprint. The expansion includes providing recommendations for station accessibility, redevelopment, and equity planning guidance for active transportation.
"Greyhound is an essential service for many Jacksonians, including workers, students, veterans and active-duty military, and local businesses," said Thompson. "This funding will help build infrastructures that boost Jackson's economy while creating a more equitable transportation system throughout the region."
JRA and Greyhound, North America's largest intercity bus service, resumed intercity service routes at Jackson's Union Station in December 2023. Over the past month, travelers from Jackson and surrounding communities have had daily access to eastbound and westbound routes, connecting them to Greyhound's network of more than 1,700 destinations nationwide.
“Greyhound is so pleased to resume service to Jackson,” said Gilda Brewton, Regional Vice President for Greyhound. “We are grateful to the JRA for their invaluable help in making this happen. As we begin the new year, Greyhound looks forward to providing convenient, affordable bus travel to the great people of Jackson and surrounding areas.”
Research from The American Public Transporation Association (ATPA) shows the value of investing in municipal transit infrastructure, with an estimated return on investment of five dollars for every dollar invested. In addition, ATPA research found that “transportation investments support cost savings for transit users and non-users.”
“People are at the center of this announcement–from those who ride the system to workers and local businesses. By providing accessible transportation throughout the Jackson-Metro area, this partnership encourages significant development while creating good-paying jobs for residents of various social, economic, and professional backgrounds,” said JRA Chairman Alex Lawson, Jr. “This renewed partnership is one of many initiatives we are developing across Jackson to improve our city's infrastructure and promote long-term economic growth.”
JRA continues developing and implementing plans to position Union Station as an economic and social boon for downtown Jackson, creating more jobs while increasing access to Mississippi’s capital city, cultural destinations, and local businesses.
About Jackson Redevelopment Authority
The Jackson Redevelopment Authority (JRA) is governed by a seven-member board of commissioners nominated by the City of Jackson’s Mayor to create safer housing, develop innovative businesses, and build a stronger infrastructure. Through strategic partnerships with the City of Jackson, Hinds County, the State of Mississippi, and other public and private partnerships JRA promotes social equity, environmental sustainability and economic growth.
About Flix NA
Flix North America Inc., parent company of FlixBus Inc. and Greyhound Lines, Inc., provides the largest intercity bus transportation and booking platform for North America. A subsidiary of Germany-based mobility company Flix SE, Flix North America Inc. provides services in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, with almost 2,300 destinations across its network. Greyhound, FlixBus and their operating partners offer a smart and affordable alternative for travel that helps passengers reduce their impact on the environment and embrace a collective, sustainable approach to mobility.