Franklin County, MS -- Senator Thad Cochran (R-MS) praised members of the Franklin County community and federal, state and local officials for their efforts to make The Lake and Recreation Complex on Porter Creek a reality.

"This recreational lake and complex is the result of the hard work and cooperative efforts of many who are here today. I know that the local governments and area citizens have been supporters of this project for many years," Cochran said here Saturday at the ground breaking ceremony held at the site of the proposed project.

Senator Cochran said, "The lake project will create recreational and tourism opportunities that will result in the creation of new jobs for southwest Mississippi. It is expected that $20 million in private investment for recreational facilities will be made around the lake."

Cochran, who is a senior member of the Senate Appropriations panel that provided the federal funding for the lake project said, "Projects like these promote our State's natural resources and help make them more accessible for the enjoyment of Mississippians and visitors alike."

The Senator noted that the 1160 acre lake will provide for multiple recreational uses as well as develop habitat for wildlife and fisheries when it is completed.