After reviewing a number of proposals over recent months, the Gulfport Redevelopment Commission – the group responsible for urban renewal projects in the city of Gulfport in Mississippi – has named the architectural firm that will be responsible for the development of what will become one of the largest aquariums in the US.

 Eley Guild Hardy will work alongside PGAV to create the $100m Mississippi Aquarium, which will be the centrepiece of a new mixed-use development in the coastal city.

 “This aquarium will bring a much needed place where families can come together to explore and to learn about the wonders of the aquatic world,” said Carole Lynn Meadows, chair of the commission.

 “We see this aquarium as a catalyst of development in Gulfport and an enhancement to the growing tourism industry in the Coastal region. Now, the fun begins as we work with our designers in bringing the community’s vision of the Mississippi Aquarium at Gulfport to reality.”