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FRANKLIN COUNTY – Hyatt Hotels will build a 200-room lodge and a conference center in Franklin County as part of the Okhissa Lake Development.

The plans were announced Tuesday by Hyatt Hotels Corporation and the Scenic River Development Alliance, which is spearheading efforts to create a resort at Okhissa Lake in Franklin County.

The Okhissa Lake Lodge will be the first Destination by Hyatt brand hotel in Mississippi. Expected to open in 2027 on Okhissa Lake in Franklin County, the lodge will feature 200 rooms, including cabin suites; a 1,000-person conference center; swimming pool with hot tub; a spa; restaurants; and a boardwalk overlooking the marina at the 1,200-acre spring fed lake in the Homochitto National Forest.

“We’re looking forward to creating a strong relationship with Scenic Rivers as we introduce the Destination by Hyatt brand to Mississippi and expand our brand presence in exciting new locations that are important to our guests and World of Hyatt members,” said Rika Lisslo, vice president, development – Americas, Hyatt. “Okhissa Lake Lodge will embody the spirit of the Destination by Hyatt brand by incorporating nature-inspired elements that reflect the outdoor and recreational lifestyle of Franklin County, offering travelers a fresh and captivating destination experience.”

The development of a resort at Lake Okhissa has been the focus of the Scenic Rivers group and area leaders who see the benefits of a destination tourist location in Southwest Mississippi.

“Supporting this project has been a top priority of mine since entering the Senate and I am thrilled that we are one step closer to seeing this project come to fruition. Okhissa Lake Lodge will provide well-paying jobs and economic development to Southwest Mississippi, and allow more people to experience our state’s exceptional hospitality,” said U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.)

Joseph Parker, executive director of Scenic Rivers Development Alliance, called the announcement a “milestone” in project progress.

“Scenic Rivers is delighted to welcome Hyatt to the Scenic Rivers Region of Southwest Mississippi. Over the past several years, we have developed a strong relationship with the Hyatt team as this project has progressed, and their commitment has been exceptional. We are eager to showcase the Okhissa Lake Lodge, operated by Hyatt, to a global audience in the near future. This milestone would not have been possible without the unwavering support of our state and federal representatives, as well as local officials. Together, we share a unified vision for advancing rural economic development across counties and cities in Southwest Mississippi,” Parker said.

Local officials in Franklin County are equally as excited.

“The Scenic Rivers Development Alliance (SRDA) has formed strong regional bonds.  Hyatt is a perfect fit for the strong regional SRDA brand in Southwest Mississippi. The Hyatt flag on this lodge and conference center will make this part of Mississippi a must stay and visit place,” said Lane B. Reed, Mayor of Meadville.

“Southwest Mississippi has been blessed with an abundance in relation to outdoor recreation and opportunities.  The Hyatt brand and strength will serve to open the door to the Scenic Rivers Region of Southwest Mississippi,” said Patrick W. Larkin, President of the Franklin County Board of Supervisors.

“The Board of Aldermen and I are thrilled with the announcement of Hyatt as the operator of the Lodge and Conference Center,” said Linda Green, Mayor of Bude.

According to a company release, the Destination by Hyatt brand is a diverse collection of independent hotels, resorts and residences that are individual at heart yet connected by a commitment to embody the true spirit of each location. Each property is purposefully crafted to be a place of immersive discoveries, authentic design, and warm and welcoming service. As an honored host, each Destination by Hyatt property connects guests to both people and place—offering a sense of belonging that invites all to make our destination yours.

To learn more information about the Destination by Hyatt brand, please visit: https://www.hyatt.com/en-US/brands/destination-by-hyatt.