Biloxi Lighthouse Reopens After Repairs

The Biloxi Lighthouse reopened to the public on October 27, concluding a restoration project that had been announced in late August.

Crews addressed corrosion on the top railing and repainted the floors with oil-based paint. Work also included repairs around the windows and dome. The staircase, built in 1848, was left unchanged.

The $52,000 project marks the first major restoration since Hurricane Katrina. The previous overhaul was completed in 2009.

Biloxi Public Affairs Specialist John Majure noted the structure’s resilience. “In as many hurricanes as the lighthouse has seen and the Gulf Coast has seen, this lighthouse has stood through a lot of them, with even the water levels showing where it’s taking water a third of the way up,” Majure said.

Visitors arrived during the Cruisin’ the Coast event. Hospitality Manager Onnie Gazzo said guests reacted to the visible water lines from Hurricane Katrina and Hurricane Camille. “They’re amazed at the water lines and how it has actually stood here for so many years,” Gazzo said. The Biloxi Visitors Center reported at least 40 visitors since the reopening.

The lighthouse is open daily from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Admission is $5 for ages 12 and up, $2 for ages 6 to 11, and free for children 5 and under. Tickets are sold at the Biloxi Visitors Center across the street.