Two decades following Hurricane Katrina's ravage, Eastern Biloxi's casinos flourish amid Main Street's decline.
In the heart of Mississippi, lies the city of Biloxi, a coastal gem that was severely tested by the wrath of Hurricane Katrina 20 years ago. Among its districts, East Biloxi stands out, not just for its resilience, but for its unique characteristics that have shaped its economic, racial, and recovery dynamics.
East Biloxi, divided by its railroad tracks, was the hardest-hit area within Biloxi during Hurricane Katrina. Approximately 80% of houses in the district were either destroyed or rendered uninhabitable. However, an unlikely beacon of hope emerged in the form of casinos, located south of the railroad tracks.
Built on barges to bypass Mississippi law, these casinos miraculously withstood the hurricane's fury, while most houses in the area were reduced to rubble. The casinos, originally constructed by operators primarily from Las Vegas, were designed to float on water, enabling them to move with the flooding during the disaster, in some cases, several blocks up.
The recovery process in East Biloxi has been significantly influenced by these railroad tracks. The casinos, now rebuilt on land following legislative changes, have played a pivotal role in the district's economic revitalisation. Yet, they also serve as a stark reminder of the city's racial division.
The railroad tracks in East Biloxi have long been a dividing line, influencing the city's racial makeup. South of the tracks, where the casinos are situated, is predominantly white, while the north side, largely residential, is predominantly African American.
This article, reported by Stephan Bisaha of New Orleans Public Radio, does not focus on commercial casinos in Mississippi's economy. Instead, it delves into the impact of the railroad tracks on the economy, race, and recovery in East Biloxi.
As East Biloxi continues its journey towards recovery, the railroad tracks remain a potent symbol of the city's past, present, and future. They are a testament to the city's resilience, a reminder of the challenges faced, and a beacon of hope for a brighter tomorrow.
