By By Ben Alexander/The Meridian Star
Feb. 28, 2001
A review of the 511-acre site of Meridian's new industrial park did not uncover any items of significant archeological value, officials said Wednesday.
With the finding, the Mississippi Department of Archives and History has given its approval for construction to begin.
Jim Lauro, a historian with Archaeology of Mississippi Inc., investigated the property for artifacts before turning his findings in to the Department of Archives and History. Lauro said his investigations didn't turn up anything of major historical significance.
Lauro said 14 buildings on the property were constructed in the early 1930s by-then Meridian resident Bob Malone as part of the Malone Ranch, which did peak the interest of the Department of Archives and History.
Temple said getting the department's blessing was one of the first steps the property will undergo before construction and other work could commence on the property.
According to Temple, the city is still working to finalize the extension of water and sewer service to the park and the county has started making efforts to make the property more accessible.
In addition other environmental specifications must be passed before work could begin on the project.
Ben Alexander is a staff writer for The Meridian Star. E-mail him at balexander@themeridianstar.com.