News Summary
Ongoing construction projects in Hattiesburg aim to improve traffic flow and safety on key roadways, with the installation of directionalized medians on U.S. Highway 49 and the construction of overpasses at Hall Avenue. These initiatives, funded through federal and state resources, seek to reduce accidents and enhance the driving experience while minimizing disruptions for local businesses. As the city gears up for completion, benefits to commuters and emergency services are anticipated, addressing current traffic challenges and overcrowding during peak periods.
Hattiesburg, Mississippi — Construction Projects Aim to Improve Traffic Flow and Safety
Construction activities in Hattiesburg are currently causing significant changes to local traffic patterns, with ongoing efforts to enhance safety and efficiency along key roadway corridors. The Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) is finalizing a projects that includes installing six “directionalized” medians along U.S. Highway 49 and constructing two overpasses at Hall Avenue, both aimed at reducing accidents and improving traffic movement throughout the city.
U.S. 49 Median Installation and Traffic Management
The most recent phase involves closing one lane of traffic on U.S. 49 for several months, affecting drivers traveling near the University of Southern Mississippi. The construction site extends between Fourth Street and Hardy Street. The main objective of the median installation is to prevent dangerous driver behaviors at busy intersections, specifically the crossing of all four lanes simultaneously.
The six “directionalized” medians are designed to control driver movement by encouraging right turns rather than allowing motorists to cross multiple lanes, which has historically led to side-angle and T-bone collisions. This safety measure aims to significantly reduce crash rates and improve overall traffic flow. The project, with a total cost of about $2.1 million, is funded through a combination of federal and state resources and is expected to be completed by mid-August 2025. The timing aligns with the upcoming return of students to Southern Miss, supporting safer travel as the campus resumes full activity.
Impact on Local Businesses and Community
Nearby businesses, including establishments such as the Harbor Bar & Grill, have witnessed a decline in customer traffic during the construction period. However, local business managers remain optimistic about a rebound once the project concludes and normal traffic patterns are restored. Community residents supporting the project anticipate that once completed, the new medians will facilitate smoother traffic flow and safer driving conditions for all travelers.
Upcoming Overpass at Hall Avenue
Alongside the median project, Hattiesburg is preparing to open the Hall Avenue East overpass in a ribbon-cutting ceremony scheduled for a Wednesday morning. This new overpass aims to eliminate delays caused by passing trains in downtown Hattiesburg, a concern for both commuters and emergency responders. Planning for the Hall Avenue overpasses started in 2019 but faced delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic and rising construction costs. The project, costing approximately $24 million, has been funded through use-tax revenue and federal grants.
The Hall Avenue East overpass is named after state Rep. Percy Watson, while the upcoming Hall Avenue West overpass will bear the name of U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, in recognition of his support and funding efforts. U.S. Rep. Mike Ezell also contributed to securing the final $3 million needed for completion of the project.
Expected Benefits of Overpass Construction
The addition of these overpasses is expected to improve traffic flow, reduce congestion, and shorten emergency response times by decreasing delays caused by train crossings. However, challenges remain due to the presence of 22 rail crossings within the downtown area that currently lack alternative routes if blocked, complicating traffic management and emergency access.
Current Traffic Conditions and Advisory
At present, traffic congestion is heightened along I-59, particularly in the northbound lanes past the U.S. Hwy 98 exit, following a recent crash. Although all lanes are open, ongoing construction between Hattiesburg and Petal has contributed to additional delays, especially after an accident near Mississippi 42/Evelyn Gandy Parkway further impacted the flow of traffic. Prior to the crash, construction had already narrowed I-59 southbound lanes between the Bouie River bridge and the U.S. 49 overpass to a single lane.
MDOT has advised drivers to consider alternative routes to avoid the area due to congestion and ongoing work. Commuters are encouraged to stay informed about traffic updates and plan ahead to minimize delays during this period of extensive roadway improvements.
In summary, Hattiesburg is actively investing in infrastructure projects designed to enhance safety, reduce congestion, and support future growth. While construction has temporarily disrupted traffic and affected local businesses, the completion of these projects is expected to result in significant long-term benefits for residents, commuters, and emergency services alike.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- WDAM: US49 Construction Project Near USM Close to Completion
- Wikipedia: Traffic Management
- Hattiesburg American: New Hattiesburg Overpass Sidesteps Train Delays
- Google Search: Hattiesburg traffic construction
- WDAM: Crash Adds to Heavy Congestion I-59 North Hattiesburg
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Road Safety
- WDAM: I-59 Traffic Snarled by Construction, Reported Wreck
- Google News: Hattiesburg construction projects
Author: STAFF HERE RALEIGH WRITER
RALEIGH STAFF WRITER The RALEIGH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERaleigh.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Raleigh, Wake County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the North Carolina State Fair, Raleigh Arts Festival, and the Hopscotch Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Raleigh Chamber of Commerce and Visit Raleigh, plus leading businesses in technology and education that power the local economy such as Red Hat and NC State University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
