Founded in 2009, the Pecan Tree Park Neighborhood Association (PTPNA) exists to preserve, protect, and enhance one of Gulfport’s most desirable communities. Nestled within the boundaries of Robinson Street, Prentiss Drive, Robert Smith Sr. Parkway, Pecan Boulevard, and John R. Lynch Street, Pecan Tree Park is more than a neighborhood—it is a community of neighbors committed to creating a safe, welcoming, and thriving place to call home. 

PTPNA serves as the collective voice of residents, fostering strong relationships among neighbors while working collaboratively with local government agencies, schools, churches, businesses, and surrounding communities. Through advocacy, communication, community events, and civic engagement, we address issues that matter most to our residents and promote solutions that strengthen our neighborhood for generations to come. 

Our mission is to enhance the livability, safety, beauty, and long-term sustainability of Pecan Tree Park by encouraging resident involvement, building meaningful partnerships, and cultivating a shared sense of pride and belonging. Whether welcoming new families, supporting neighborhood improvements, or bringing neighbors together through community activities, we believe that strong communities are built through connection, service, and stewardship. 

At Pecan Tree Park, we are committed to preserving the character of our neighborhood while embracing opportunities that make it an even better place to live, work, and grow. Together, we are building a vibrant community where neighbors know one another, families flourish, and the future is bright.

WHAT WE DO

At the Pecan Tree Park Neighborhood Association, we work to preserve, protect, and enhance the quality of life that makes our neighborhood a desirable place to call home. Through active resident involvement, collaborative problem-solving, and ongoing communication, we strive to foster a safe, attractive, and connected community where neighbors can live, grow, and thrive together. 

Our efforts focus on the priorities that matter most to residents and prospective homeowners: safety, accessibility, and community quality of life. We advocate for infrastructure improvements, support initiatives that enhance neighborhood appearance and property values, and work with local leaders and agencies to address issues affecting traffic, drainage, utilities, and public services. By serving as a unified voice for the neighborhood, we help ensure that community needs and concerns are heard and addressed. 

We also strengthen the social fabric of Pecan Tree Park by organizing events, sharing important information, welcoming new residents, and creating opportunities for neighbors to build meaningful relationships. Whether through community gatherings, volunteer projects, beautification efforts, or neighborhood improvement initiatives, we encourage residents to become active participants in shaping the future of our community. 

In addition, we monitor and communicate about long-standing infrastructure priorities, emerging development opportunities, and issues that may impact the neighborhood’s safety, appearance, and overall character. Our goal is to balance thoughtful growth with the preservation of the qualities that make Pecan Tree Park unique. 

Above all, we are committed to building a neighborhood where residents take pride in their community, support one another, and work together to create a safe, welcoming, and vibrant place for current and future generations.

COMMUNITY IMPACT AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Explore the initiatives, partnerships, projects, and milestones that showcase Pecan Tree Park Neighborhood Association’s commitment to improving neighborhood quality of life, strengthening community connections, and creating lasting positive change. 

Gateways to a Greener Jackson
In partnership with Jackson State University and supported by the USDA Forest Service, PTPNA helped launch the Gateways to a Greener Jackson initiative to strengthen the urban forest and green infrastructure surrounding West Jackson. The program focuses on expanding tree canopy coverage, improving public green spaces, and creating healthier, cooler, and more attractive neighborhoods. Through workshops, planning sessions, and community engagement, residents have helped shape a long-term vision for environmental sustainability and neighborhood revitalization. 

Urban Forestry and Leadership Capacity Building
PTPNA organized and participated in a series of Urban Forestry and leadership development workshops that engaged more than 80 residents from across West Jackson. These sessions equipped community members with knowledge about environmental stewardship, neighborhood planning, and civic leadership. The effort resulted in the creation of resident-led workgroups focused on trees, lighting, streets, parks, communications, and community engagement. These teams continue to guide neighborhood improvement initiatives and strengthen local leadership capacity. 

Community Funday Celebration
PTPNA partnered with Lynch Street CME Church to host its annual Community Funday, bringing together residents, families, and community organizations for fellowship and neighborhood pride. The event provides opportunities for neighbors to connect, celebrate their community, and build stronger relationships. Community Funday reflects the association’s commitment to fostering a welcoming and united neighborhood. Through events like these, PTPNA continues to strengthen the social fabric of Pecan Tree Park. 

Cameras for the Wise Program
Working alongside Jackson State University, PTPNA secured a Home Depot Community Grant to launch the Cameras for the Wise initiative. The program provides Ring security cameras to residents aged 65 and older living within a one-mile radius of the university. By enhancing home security and increasing neighborhood awareness, the initiative promotes safety and peace of mind for senior residents. The project demonstrates how strategic partnerships can directly improve quality of life for vulnerable populations. 

Neighborhood Entryway Sign Project
After years of planning and community advocacy, PTPNA continues with plans to erect entryway signs marking the entrances to the neighborhood. The project will fulfill a vision that dates back to at least 2012 and serves as a visible symbol of community identity and pride. The signs help create a sense of place while welcoming residents and visitors alike. This accomplishment will reflect the association’s persistence and commitment to enhancing neighborhood appearance and recognition. 

Neighborhood Beautification and Clean-Up Initiatives
PTPNA has long supported neighborhood beautification efforts aimed at improving the appearance and health of the community. These activities include litter removal, environmental stewardship, recycling awareness, and advocacy for cleaner public spaces. By encouraging residents to take an active role in maintaining their neighborhood, the association fosters a culture of shared responsibility and pride. These efforts contribute to a safer and more attractive environment for everyone. 

West Jackson Community Cleanup Partnership
PTPNA joined Jackson State University students, St. Luther Missionary Baptist Church, Keep Jackson Beautiful, and other community partners in a large-scale neighborhood cleanup effort. Volunteers worked together to remove litter and promote environmental responsibility throughout West Jackson. The initiative demonstrated the power of collaboration among residents, students, churches, and local organizations. Beyond beautification, the event helped inspire community ownership and positive action. 

Support for Ward 5 Schools
Although no schools are located directly within Pecan Tree Park’s boundaries, PTPNA actively supports the schools attended by neighborhood children. The association contributed to Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) programs and volunteered at Blackburn Middle School during student testing periods. These efforts reflect PTPNA’s belief that strong schools contribute to stronger neighborhoods. By investing in educational success, the association helps support future generations of community leaders. 

Senior Outreach and Emergency Preparedness Initiative
Recognizing the importance of caring for long-time residents, PTPNA launched a neighborhood outreach effort focused on seniors aged 75 and older. The initiative gathers information to improve emergency preparedness, strengthen communication networks, and identify residents who may need assistance during emergencies. It also seeks to preserve neighborhood history through oral history projects and resident storytelling. This program reflects the association’s commitment to honoring, supporting, and learning from its senior neighbors. 

Long-Term Infrastructure Advocacy
Since its founding in 2009, PTPNA has consistently advocated for improvements to streets, drainage systems, utility infrastructure, stormwater management, and public safety. Residents have worked with city agencies, county officials, and institutional partners to address persistent challenges affecting neighborhood quality of life. Special attention has been given to the John R. Lynch Street corridor, a key gateway to both the neighborhood and Jackson State University. These ongoing efforts represent the association’s dedication to long-term community improvement and responsible stewardship. 

Community Communication and Engagement Program
To keep residents informed and connected, PTPNA has developed an extensive communication network that includes newsletters, street captains, community meetings, and neighborhood outreach. In 2025 alone, the association distributed hundreds of newsletters throughout the community. These efforts ensure residents remain informed about neighborhood projects, opportunities, and concerns. Strong communication continues to be one of the cornerstones of PTPNA’s success. 

Leadership Development and Community Organizing
Throughout its history, PTPNA has focused on building resident leadership and encouraging active civic participation. Through committees, volunteer opportunities, training programs, and partnerships, residents have developed the skills needed to advocate for their community and lead neighborhood initiatives. This emphasis on grassroots leadership has enabled the association to sustain its work for more than fifteen years. The result is a stronger, more connected neighborhood equipped to address challenges and seize opportunities together.