Bennie G. Thompson

10/17/2024 | Press release | Archived content

Congressman Bennie G. Thompson Announces Funding for Major Improvements to the I 20/I 55 Freight Corridor in Mississippi

Jackson, MS - Congressman Bennie G. Thompson is pleased to announce that the Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) has been awarded federal funding for critical improvements to the I-20/I-55 Freight Corridor in Jackson, Mississippi. The funding, allocated through the Nationally Significant Freight and Highway Projects Program (NSMFHP) for Fiscal Years 2025 and 2026, will ensure the modernization and safety of a vital transportation network that serves both the state and the nation. MDOT was allocated $51,609,270 for Fiscal Year 2025 and $35,039,000 for Fiscal Year 2026.

The project will focus on updating seven bridge structures to meet modern design standards, repairing an additional 19 bridges, and resurfacing approximately 32 miles of interstate and highway along the I-20 Corridor. In addition, Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) equipment will be deployed, enhancing traffic management, communication, and safety for freight movement and commuters alike.

"This funding represents a significant investment in Mississippi's infrastructure, ensuring that our highways and bridges remain safe, efficient, and capable of supporting both local and national commerce," said Congressman Thompson.

The I-20/I-55 Freight Corridor is a critical route for the movement of goods, connecting Mississippi to major markets across the southeastern United States. By modernizing these key structures and improving the roadway, the project will reduce traffic congestion, enhance safety, and create a more reliable transportation network for freight carriers and travelers.