Sierra Club opposes casino garage near marine center

Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2001 | 10:40 a.m.

BILOXI, Miss. -- Isle of Capri's plan to put a parking garage on public property behind the J.L. Scott Marine Education Center has drawn opposition from the local Sierra Club chapter.

The Biloxi Planning Commission approved the project two weeks ago. The issue is now before the city council.

The Sierra Club Coast Group has asked the city council to block the construction.

"Most of Point Cadet has been taken over by the casino industry, and we need to preserve this last bit of important green space for public access, recreation and marine education," said Howard Page, who heads the coast environmental group.

He said the garage would completely crowd out the marine center and prevent its expansion.

Isle officials said the parking garage is needed for the casino to stay competitive with other gambling houses.

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