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During the past four years, Norfolk Southern Corp. and the Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) have spent $11.6 million to upgrade numerous crossings as part of a multi-year project. The railroad funded $4.7 million of the upgrades, according to NS' monthly newsletter.

The parties upgraded crossings between Meridian and Picayune with gates and flashing lights. In addition, NS closed a number of crossings along the line.

"Mississippi is the first state to complete a railroad project of this magnitude," said Bill Hughes, NS manager of grade crossing safety, west.

Hughes presented a plaque to state DOT officials in appreciation for their project support.

"We're no longer just the highway department — rail is something that is high on our priority list," said MDOT Executive Director Larry Brown.