MDOT commish commits to 55 widening

The $65 million six-laning of I-55 from Madison to Gluckstadt remains in the design phase, although Transportation Commissioner Willie Simmons assured Madison County supervisors on Monday the work is part of the MDOT’s three year plan.

Simmons told county supervisors they were working on getting federal and state funds for the project.

District 2 Supervisor Trey Baxter said the project is “exciting” and “definitely needed.”

“I just wish it would happen a little sooner,” Baxter said.

Baxter said the growth of Gluckstadt which has seen an “explosion of business” and continues to grow, will necessitate expanding the interstate sooner rather than later.

“There are hundreds of new houses going up on the east and west sides of the interstate,” Baxter said. “The need for wider roads only becomes greater.”

Baxter said roads are like “veins and arteries” and are “essential for a community to thrive.”

Michael Flood, MDOT spokesperson, said the project involves the widening of I-55 to six lanes from Mississippi 463 to Gluckstadt. 

The project will extend slightly north of Gluckstadt to include interchange ramps for a total of approximately 4.7 miles.

As far as the time frame is concerned, Flood said DOT anticipates having final plans for the project in either 2026 or 2027. Flood said they have covered one hundred percent of the pre-construction costs estimated to be around $1.9 million.

He estimates it will be another three years after funding is secured before construction can be completed.

“Construction funds still need to be identified but once work begins,” He said. “Construction is estimated to take approximately three years.”

Flood asked for patience from Madison County residents and those traveling the interstate while MDOT moves forward on this and other projects.

“Construction of this magnitude requires careful planning and extensive coordination in these early stages,” Flood said. “We kindly request for public patience as we move through the process of getting I-55 widened, both before and during construction.” 

MDOT and Madison County have been coordinating on the proposed interchange at Reunion Parkway, according to Flood. 

The project is required to accommodate the new interchange at Reunion Parkway, Baxter said. The County is working toward acquiring the necessary right of way to accommodate the ramps.

The public can stay updated at GoMDOT.com and by following @MississippiDOT on social media, Flood said.