Board Authorizes Next Phase of Innovative Design-Build-Finance Initiative to Advance Development of a New Passenger Terminal at JAN
JACKSON, MS – (October 26, 2026) – The Jackson Municipal Airport Authority (JMAA) Board of Commissioners today authorized the Authority to advance negotiations for a Pre-Development Agreement (PDA) with the Jackson Forward development team, led by CAG Holdings, Yates Construction, and Gensler, for the development of a new passenger terminal at Jackson– Medgar Wiley Evers International Airport (JAN).
The action follows a competitive Request for Qualifications and Proposals (RFQ/P) process for the design, construction, and financing of a new terminal. The development and design team brings together recognized leaders in global infrastructure investment, construction, and airport design and architecture.
The initiative represents a significant milestone in JMAA’s long-term effort to modernize JAN, strengthen the region’s aviation infrastructure, enhance the passenger experience, and support economic development throughout Central Mississippi. The next step is to conclude a predevelopment agreement, which is expected by the end of 2026.
An Innovative Approach to Airport Infrastructure Investment
The project would use a Design-Build-Finance delivery approach, leveraging private-sector expertise and investment to complement traditional airport funding sources.
The initiative comes as the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) is actively encouraging greater private-sector participation in airport infrastructure investment. In September, the U.S. Secretary of DOT convened airport sponsors, infrastructure investors, and industry leaders at a day-long conference to explore opportunities to “unleash private capital” in support of modernizing America’s airports.
JMAA Chief Executive Officer Rosa M. Beckett participated as a panelist at that conference, representing the perspectives of airport sponsors and emphasizing the growing infrastructure investment challenges facing small- and medium-hub airports. Warren T. Herring Sharon F. Bridges, Esq. Rica Lewis -P ayton Jean C. Frazier Bishop Ronnie C. Crudup, Sr. Rosa M. Beckett, IAP, CM, MBA, MHR M
Chairman Vice Chairwoman Commissioner Commissioner Commissioner Chief Executive Officer“
Airports like JAN face a fundamental challenge: the need to modernize aging infrastructure while maintaining affordability for airlines and passengers, often with federal funding that cannot fully meet capital requirements,” said Beckett. “This initiative represents an opportunity to pursue a different approach—one that leverages private-sector capabilities while preserving JMAA’s responsibility to protect the long-term interests of the airport and the community we serve.”
The innovative JAN initiative, first of its kind for delivering airport projects in the U.S., could provide a model that could be replicated for small and medium-sized airports nationwide seeking to modernize and expand their airport infrastructure.
“The Jackson Municipal Airport Authority Board of Commissioners recognizes the significance of advancing the Terminal Enhancement Program at Jackson–Medgar Wiley Evers International Airport. This initiative represents an important step toward modernizing our airport infrastructure, strengthening the region’s economic competitiveness, and positioning JAN for long-term growth,” noted Beckett. “We are eager to show how Jackson will be a model for the nation for unleashing private capital development at small and medium-sized airports,” she commented.
“I’m delighted that we have advanced the prospect of a future airport terminal that reflects Jackson and the greater region. Our priority is to pursue development that is financially responsible, operationally sustainable, and responsive to the needs of our passengers, airline partners, and the communities we serve.”
-Warren Herring, Chair JMAA Board of Commissioners
“This project represents an important opportunity to modernize the terminal, improve the passenger experience, and meet the airport’s future needs. CAG Holdings has assembled a team bringing together Mississippi-based Yates Construction, a nationally renowned builder, and Gensler, a leading global architecture and design firm with extensive airport experience. We look forward to working with JMAA to explore how we can help advance its vision for the airport.”
— Gerrard Bushell, Chairman, CAG Holdings
“The Evaluation Team conducted a comprehensive, independent, and rigorous assessment of the proposal, applying established evaluation criteria to assess the development team’s qualifications, financial strength, technical expertise, and demonstrated ability to deliver a project of this magnitude. We are confident that the recommended team possesses the experience, resources, and capabilities necessary to advance this transformative initiative. Our recommendation to the JMAA Board of Commissioners reflects a thorough, objective evaluation process grounded in integrity, transparency, and sound professional judgment.”
— Reginald Thompson, VP, Alliant Insurance Services, Evaluation Committee Spokesperson
About JMAA
The Jackson Municipal Airport Authority (JMAA) operates two airports: Jackson-Medgar Wiley Evers International Airport (JAN) and Hawkins Field Airport (HKS). JAN is the busiest airport in Mississippi, situated in the central part of the state, serving the Jackson capital region, and spanning over 3,000 acres. JAN also serves several of the world’s most connected global hubs and is home to the Mississippi Air National Guard 172nd Airlift Wing. HKS is a general aviation airport that houses two emergency medical air transport companies and the Civil Air Patrol and is home to the Mississippi Army National Guard 185th Aviation Brigade. The Authority serves over 1.2 million total passengers and handles nearly 20 million pounds of air cargo, mail, and packages annually.
