Jackson County

What happened to Cash Alley? Here’s what Ocean Springs officials have to say

Ocean Springs officials removed the iconic Cash Alley umbrellas Thursday, prompting uproar on social media.
Ocean Springs officials removed the iconic Cash Alley umbrellas Thursday, prompting uproar on social media.

Ocean Springs officials plan to replace the Cash Alley umbrellas after removing them Thursday due to their poor condition, according to project manager Sarah Harris.

“The city will be ordering new umbrellas and is brainstorming new ideas for the continued enjoyment along Cash Alley,” Harris said. 

Cash Alley is a stretch of sidewalk located between Pop Brothers and The Garage. The colorful umbrellas were a well-known downtown attraction and a popular backdrop for photos. 

Harris said there is no timeline for the reinstallation. 

The colorful umbrellas hanging above Cash Alley were an iconic photo spot in Ocean Springs, drawing visitors from across the South.
The colorful umbrellas hanging above Cash Alley were an iconic photo spot in Ocean Springs, drawing visitors from across the South. Hannah Ruhoff Sun Herald

The removal sparked debate on Facebook, where hundreds of users questioned the decision and provided ideas for future displays. 

Pop Brothers manager Abby Colledge said the umbrellas bring in customers. 

“People are looking at the umbrellas and then they realize there’s popsicles right here,” Colledge said. “People will come from two hours away just to take pictures.” 

This isn’t the first time the city has taken down the umbrellas. Last year, officials removed them before hanging Christmas lights, followed by Mardi Gras-themed umbrellas.

This story was originally published July 28, 2025 at 11:35 AM.

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