Driving Economic Growth

Rusty Walker is powering Gulfport’s economic growth, spearheading projects that create jobs, attract visitors, and bring prosperity to the entire city—benefiting the business owners and leaders who proudly call Ward 4 home. His leadership ensures Ward 4 residents reap the rewards of a thriving Gulfport.

The Hippie Fish putting experience nearing completion in May of 2025.

• Island View Casino Expansion: Rusty championed the expansion of Island View Casino, a major draw that creates jobs and boosts tourism, directly benefiting business owners who lead and invest in our city’s hospitality sector.
• Markham Hotel Opening: By closely supporting the Markham Hotel’s revitalization, Rusty has helped ensure a premier destination that draws visitors, supporting Ward 4’s citizens and business leaders whose enterprises thrive on increased tourism.
• Mississippi Aquarium Expansion: Rusty’s leadership in developing and expanding the Mississippi Aquarium has made it a regional attraction, driving economic activity that benefits Ward 4 residents who own, operate, manage, and work at businesses throughout Gulfport.
• Beachfront Library Redevelopment: Rusty spearheaded the Beachfront Library’s renovation, creating a cultural hub that enhances downtown’s appeal—an economic win for Ward 4’s citizens who rely on a vibrant city center.
• Blue Tech Incentives: Through Blue Tech incentives, Rusty is attracting innovative businesses, creating jobs that support Ward 4’s entrepreneurial residents who lead Gulfport’s economic growth.
• Harbor Lights Winter Festival—A National Draw: Rusty created the Harbor Lights Winter Festival, now among America’s Top 10, which draws thousands to downtown Gulfport, filling hotels and restaurants—a boon for business owners during the off-season.
• Gulfport Town Center Development: Rusty led the council support for the new Gulfport Town Center, with over 100 hotel rooms, a parking garage, and downtown apartments, revitalizing the city’s core and boosting commerce for all of Gulfport.
• Tram Bridge and Harbor Developments: Rusty has driven enhancements to the tram bridge and Harbor, including new development planned at the Harbor’s southern tip, creating opportunities for tourism, commerce, and recreation that benefits not just Ward 4 but all of Gulfport.
• Other New Hotels: In addition to two downtown hotels, two new ones are coming as well. One near Courthouse Rd and the other at Debuys.  Rusty has supported new hotels, expanding accommodations and bringing growth to the central and east side—supporting Ward 4 residents who lead and will use these ventures.

Rusty’s work across Gulfport is lifting up Ward 4, where our city’s business owners and leaders call home. With your support, he’ll keep driving economic growth that strengthens our entire community.