Congressman Bennie Thompson Announces $67.5 Million U.S. Department of Transportation Grant for Central Mississippi Bridge Improvements

BOLTON, MS. - Today, Congressman Bennie Thompson announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has awarded a significant federal grant to the Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) through the Bridge Investment Program. This $67,512,520 investment, disbursed by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), will support the Central Bridge Bundle project in Lauderdale, Madison, and Newton Counties, Mississippi.

The Central Bridge Bundle project aims to replace 13 outdated and structurally compromised bridges that connect rural Mississippi to major urban areas, including Jackson, the state capital. These bridges-many constructed as early as 1928-do not meet current safety or geometric design standards and, with narrow lanes and weight restrictions, pose a safety risk to both freight and commuter traffic.

"This critical funding will allow us to replace aging bridge infrastructure in central Mississippi, ensuring the safety and connectivity of our communities," said Congressman Bennie Thompson. "By investing in safe and reliable transportation routes, we are not only supporting the economic vitality of our rural and urban areas but also securing safe passage for our citizens and supporting the efficient movement of goods."

MDOT's plan to bundle these 13 bridges into a single project will allow for streamlined construction, with a single contractor overseeing the replacement of all structures. The new bridges will feature prestressed concrete beam designs with two 12-foot lanes and 6-foot-wide shoulders, providing a safer and more efficient roadway for Mississippi drivers.

The project will address load-posted structures and significantly improve traffic flow and safety in central Mississippi. It represents a broader commitment by MDOT to revitalize critical infrastructure across the state, ultimately enhancing connections between rural and urban communities.