This week, the Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) closed the State Route 18 bridge over Dabbs Creek in Rankin County as part of a critical bridge replacement project.
The SR 18 bridge over Dabbs Creek at Rock Hill Rd./Kersh Rd. closed on Monday, April 24, 2023. The closure will remain in place through December 2023. With an average of 5,600 vehicles using SR 18 daily in the area, MDOT district crews and designers have carefully reviewed the safest and most efficient way to redirect traffic around the bridge replacement project.
Motorists are advised to utilize State Route 43 and I-20 as a detour route around the closure.
“We understand that closing this bridge will cause some temporary inconvenience for residents, but it is important to understand the necessity of the project from a public safety standpoint,” said Commissioner Willie Simmons, Central Transportation District. “Safety should always be the top priority when it comes to infrastructure projects, and the replacement of this bridge is no exception.”
While replacing the SR 18 bridge over Dabbs Creek requires the closure to last several months, the long-term benefits of a safer and more reliable bridge cannot be overstated. In addition to the safety benefits, the new bridge will provide better access to businesses and residents in the area.
“Bridge replacement projects like this are a critical step in preserving and improving Mississippi’s infrastructure network,” said Simmons. “Please plan ahead and allow yourself additional travel time during the closure, stay alert for roadside crews and pay close attention to posted signage in the area.”
While the work is expected to last a little over a year, the contract allows the roadway to be shut down for 240 calendar days. There will be a disincentive each day if the roadway is not opened on the required date. While the bridge will only remain closed through December 2023, remaining work is expected to wrap up by summer 2024.
“We are going to get this project completed as quickly and efficiently as possible,” said Simmons. “Residents and the business community can rest assured that they will soon have a safer and more reliable bridge to travel.”
Stay updated on this project and others at MDOTtraffic.com, download the MDOT Traffic mobile app and follow @MississippiDOT on Facebook and Twitter.
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