Mississippi DOT wraps up 9 grade crossing improvements

Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) and local officials gathered Sept. 12 to mark the completion of nine grade crossing improvement projects in Long Beach, Mississippi.

This was the first city-wide grade crossing improvement program initiated by MDOT, MDOT officials said in a press release. A similar project in the city of Pass Christian is in the design phase.

The work in Long Beach included raising roadway approaches at each of the nine crossings to decrease the likelihood of a vehicle getting stuck on the track. The improvements were funded through the Federal Highway Administration's Highway-Rail Crossing Safety grant program. Neel-Schaffer provided preliminary engineering, construction engineering and inspection services, and a $3 million contract was awarded to Moran Hauling Inc. of Gulfport for the projects.

"By leveling crossings, we’re not only improving mobility and efficiency, we’re also eliminating safety hazards for motorists and rail traffic alike," said Commissioner Charles Busby of Mississippi's Southern Transportation District.