Hattiesburg, Mississippi – On July 17, 2025, the City of Hattiesburg officially named its Intermodal Facility, commonly known as the Hattiesburg Train Depot, in honor of former mayor J. Ed Morgan, recognizing a legacy of public service and transformative leadership that helped shape modern Hattiesburg.

The J. Ed Morgan Intermodal Facility stands not only as a hub for transportation but also as a symbol of Morgan’s commitment to revitalizing the city’s historic core and improving the quality of life for all residents. The dedication ceremony, held on-site at the depot, brought together community leaders, city officials and members of the Morgan family to celebrate the renaming.

Morgan served as mayor of Hattiesburg from 1989 to 2001. During his 12-year tenure, he led major initiatives that elevated Hattiesburg’s profile across the state and region, spearheading efforts to create the Hattiesburg Convention and Tourism Commissions, Area Development Partnership, Pine Belt Regional Solid Waste Authority and the city’s western annexation. His administration also oversaw the development of Tatum Park, the construction of a new public library, the accreditation of the Hattiesburg Police Department and the renovation of iconic assets like the Saenger Theater and the Hattiesburg Zoo.

“Mayor Morgan’s ability to unite people around big ideas is still evident today,” said Mayor Toby Barker. “His determination to secure funding and forge partnerships made the restoration of this train depot possible. Naming this facility in his honor is a fitting tribute to a man whose vision and leadership continue to move Hattiesburg forward.”

In addition to his time as mayor, Morgan’s public service included roles as a city councilman, state senator, commissioner of revenue, and chairman of the Mississippi State Tax Commission. A graduate of Hattiesburg High School, he went on to earn a degree in geology from the University of Alabama, where he lettered in football for three years under Coach Paul “Bear” Bryant, and a law degree from the Jackson School of Law. He also served as president of the Mississippi Municipal League and held leadership roles with the National League of Cities.

The J. Ed Morgan Intermodal Facility is a testament to Morgan’s dedication to progress and his belief in preserving and repurposing the assets that make Hattiesburg unique.

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