PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Greetings MAA Members,

The year 2025 started off with a full agenda for MAA. In the middle of January, I met with Transportation Commissioners John Caldwell and Willie Simmons to discuss the importance of the traditional Multi-Modal Transportation Improvement Fund program and its differences with the Strategic Multi-Modal Investments Fund. Both Commissioners were very supportive of the traditional program and pledged their continued support.

I also attended a meeting on January 28 at MDOT headquarters with the commissioners, Executive Director Brad White, House Speaker Jason White, House Ways and Means Committee Chair Trey Lamar and several stakeholders in the various modes of transportation to hear a presentation on House Bill 1 – the “Build Up Mississippi Act” – and what it would provide to transportation in the state. MDOT leadership asked for all modes’ support of the bill as it was pending in the Senate.

Next, we held our MAA Capitol Day on February 6. Members met with Representative Steve Massengill, the Transportation Committee Chairman, and Senator Chuck Younger, the Highways & Transportation Committee Chairman. Both meetings centered around support for traditional Multi-Modal as well as the Strategic Multi-Modal Investment Fund. We also were able to meet with Senator Rita Potts Parks, the Highways & Transportation Vice-Chairman, and were able to answer her questions about the differences in the two programs. Overall, I think it was a very successful day at the Capitol, and I look forward to continuing this event in the future.

Sincerely,

Wes Kirkpatrick
President
Mississippi Airports Association