Close cooperation among public agencies, civil defense, the private sector and the prudent actions of Coast residents resulted in nearly flawless execution of emergency response preparedness and evacuation plans. A more precise damage estimate will not be available until the storm leaves the area, but tourism officials believe Hurricane Georges caused little significant structural damage to properties. The Mississippi Gulf Coast in recent years has developed into a national resort destination with more than 12,000 hotel rooms and 11 casinos. Mirage Resorts is currently building the largest casino hotel outside of Nevada, scheduled to open this spring, in Biloxi.
Tourism is the Gulf Coast's biggest industry in terms of economic impact and workforce.
Hotel guests were for the most part evacuated, and the casinos closed on Friday to prepare for Hurricane Georges arrival. National media who have converged on the area to cover the storm have been staying at hotel rooms away from the beachfront. Once Georges leaves the Mississippi Gulf Coast, then we can take the time to assess any damage and provide a time table of when the hotels and casinos will reopen. We do expect some establishments to be open for business within a few days. We consider ourselves fortunate considering the storm's force, heavy rains and slow movement.