The Mississippi Transportation Commission recently announced $6.1 million in federal Transportation Alternatives (TA) projects for the Central Transportation District, with $873,594.72 awarded to the Wesson Campus of Copiah Lincoln Community College for the construction of sidewalks and speed tables on campus in high traffic areas.
TA funds are federal transportation dollars that are for non-roadway types of improvements such as sidewalks, multiuse paths, pedestrian lighting and traffic calming. The funds flow through the Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) Local Public Agency (LPA).
LPA programs leverage local investments with federal funds for infrastructure improvements to enhance the quality of life for residents throughout Mississippi.
“This year, I am honored to provide these much needed grants to our colleges, universities and small towns,” said Commissioner Willie Simmons, Central Transportation District. “During these challenging times, safety is a concern that we must address, and these funds will assist them in this effort.”
MDOT serves as a conduit for local governments to access federal Fixing America’s Surface Transportation (FAST) Act funds. MDOT provides project guidance and oversight, but does not receive any portion of the funding.
“Congressional money is vital to city and county governments,” Simmons said. “We greatly appreciate Mississippi’s senators and congressional delegation for their continued support.”
Copiah Lincoln Community College can provide additional information regarding timelines and impacts to traffic prior to the start of construction.
Work zones present new traffic patterns and configurations that may be unfamiliar to some motorists. For information about how to navigate highway work zones safely, visit GoMDOT.com/drivesmartms.
For more information about these or other MDOT maintenance and construction projects, visit MDOTtraffic.com, download the free MDOT Traffic mobile app or like and follow @MississippiDOT on Facebook and Twitter.