FOR THE FUTURE OF JACKSON

For more than fifty years, Jackson’s population has declined, reducing the city’s capacity to deliver services and contributing to challenges in safety, infrastructure, housing, and economic opportunity. Jackson Rising is focused on reversing these trends through coordinated public–private partnership. By aligning efforts across sectors and advancing actionable ideas, the initiative aims to rebuild confidence, retain residents, attract new investment, and position Jackson as a city of momentum, resilience, and possibility.

JACKSON RISING

Launched in response to a call to action by Mayor John Horhn in Fall 2025, Jackson Rising was initiated as a collaborative public–private leadership framework designed to move investable ideas into action. Over the past several months, more than thirty working groups including 300 participants have convened to bridge gaps across sectors, identify shared priorities, and accelerate coordination around Jackson’s future.

MAKING PROGRESS

Through facilitated workshops and focused research, participants have generated a draft framework of investable ideas across fourteen focus areas. These early concepts reflect both immediate opportunities and longer-term strategies to strengthen neighborhoods, improve quality of life, and support population growth. Together, they represent the foundation of an ongoing implementation effort, with additional refinement, partnership, and investment ahead.

BROWSE THE MENU

JACKSON RISING GUIDING PRINCIPLES

Build alignment and trust across public and private partners.
Strengthen communication and amplify progress stories.
Establish a shared vision for the city’s future.
Coordinate efforts across sectors with accountability.
Deliver immediate impact while preparing for long-term change.
Attract new investment, businesses, and residents.

GOT AN IDEA? SUBMIT YOUR IDEAS For Jackson Rising

Help shape Jackson’s future. Submit your ideas for public–private partnerships that can support population growth, neighborhood vitality, and long-term investment.

JACKSON RISING PLAN PRIORITIES

GROW OUR POPULATION

Retain current residents by improving essential services and quality of life, while attracting new residents through expanded housing, strong neighborhoods, and a vibrant civic identity.

INCREASE PUBLIC SAFETY

Strengthen our police department and address root causes of crime through prevention and community partnerships.

FIX OUR INFRASTRUCTURE

Repair streets, storm drains, lighting, and water systems to build a reliable foundation for daily life.

ELIMINATE BLIGHT

Remove or rehabilitate blighted properties, stabilize vacant sites, and lead visible clean-up and beautification campaigns to restore neighborhood pride.

GROW OUR ECONOMY

Attract new businesses and investment, support entrepreneurs and small businesses, and create pathways to prosperity for all residents.

INVEST IN EDUCATION

Strengthen schools, expand career pathways, and connect workforce training with real opportunities to prepare Jacksonians for success.

Strengthen Public Places

Deliver clean, safe, and well-kept parks, trails, and gathering spaces that improve health, recreation, and community pride across the city.

Energize Our Interfaith Community

Bring together faith leaders and congregations to collaborate on service, outreach, and initiatives that strengthen the social fabric of Jackson.

Support Our Neighborhoods

Invest in neighborhood-level projects that build stability and strengthen community life across all corners of Jackson.

SUPPORT UNHOUSED POPULATION

Expand shelter, transitional housing, and supportive services for residents experiencing homelessness while advancing prevention strategies that address root causes.

CELEBRATE ARTS & CULTURE

Lift up Jackson’s artists, musicians, cultural institutions, and historic venues while promoting the creativity and heritage that define the city’s identity.

TELL Jackson’s STORY

Shift the narrative by amplifying progress, celebrating early wins, and highlighting the partnerships and people driving Jackson’s future.

MEASURING PROGRESS

Over time, this page will showcase the impact of Jackson Rising, tracking visible progress across the city. From infrastructure improvements and blight removal to new businesses opening and housing being built, residents will have a clear window into how ideas move from planning to action. Regular updates will highlight early wins and upcoming projects as implementation continues.

THANK YOU SPONSORS

Jackson Rising is made possible through the leadership, generosity, and collaboration of public, private, and philanthropic partners who believe in Jackson’s future. Their support reflects a shared commitment to civic renewal, cross-sector collaboration, and building a stronger, more resilient capital city.