Hexalon Homes Founder Featured in BizWeekly: Why Housing Is the Key to Economic Growth in Small-Town America
- elizbarnes
- Mar 16
- 2 min read
I recently had the opportunity to contribute an article to BizWeekly discussing an issue that is becoming increasingly important across rural America: housing availability and its direct connection to economic growth.
Many people think of housing simply as a real estate issue, but in smaller communities it is actually one of the biggest drivers of economic development. Employers can bring jobs, but if workers and their families have nowhere to live, growth stalls before it even begins. Communities across the country are starting to see this firsthand.

Read the full article on BizWeekly:https://bizweekly.com/why-housing-is-the-key-to-economic-growth-in-small-town-america/
In the article, I discuss how housing shortages are increasingly becoming a bottleneck for smaller communities trying to attract employers and expand their local economies. Large cities have long dealt with housing constraints, but the same pressures are now reaching rural areas where development historically moved at a slower pace.
From my perspective as a builder and developer working throughout North Mississippi and Northwest Alabama, this challenge is becoming more visible every year. Companies looking to expand into smaller markets often find that the workforce is available, the infrastructure is in place, and the community is eager for growth—but the housing supply simply hasn’t kept up.

At Hexalon Homes, we focus on building high-quality residential housing designed to meet the needs of growing communities. Increasing housing availability is not just about constructing homes—it is about helping families put down roots, supporting local employers, and strengthening the long-term economic stability of the communities we serve.
Small towns across America have tremendous potential. Many already offer strong schools, great quality of life, and the kind of community environment families are looking for. But without sufficient housing supply, that potential cannot fully be realized.
As demand for housing continues to grow across North Mississippi and Northwest Alabama, residential development will play an increasingly important role in supporting both families and local economies.
About the Author

Mario Barnes Founder of EM Contingency Group and Hexalon Homes | Construction Executive & Real Estate Developer
Mario Barnes works throughout North Mississippi and Northwest Alabama developing residential housing and supporting responsible community growth through quality homebuilding and residential development.



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