Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) maintenance crews will perform chip seal operations across central Mississippi beginning Wednesday, May 22 (weather permitting).
Chip sealing is a thin film of heated asphalt liquid sprayed on the road surface, followed by the placement of small stone chips. The chips are then compacted to orient the chips for maximum adherence to the asphalt. Excess stone is then swept from the surface.
“Chip sealing efforts are critical in improving and maintaining the state highway system. It helps provide a safer and more durable road network across the state,” said Mississippi Transportation Commission Chairman Willie Simmons. “Motorists are encouraged to slow down, pay attention along these routes, and if necessary, plan an alternate route during hours of operation.”
During chip seal operations, flagmen will be on site to direct traffic. Drivers should be prepared to stop and expect delays during operating hours. Motorists may encounter loose material on the roadway for several days following sealing operations.
Chip seal operations are planned on the following routes beginning Wednesday, May 22:
- 7.4 miles of SR 13 in Leake County, from the Scott County line to SR 25, for three days.
- 18.7 miles of SR 43 in Madison County, from 1.9 miles north of SR 16 to the Leake County line, for seven days.
- 6.6 miles of SR 505 in Newton County, from U.S. 80 to the End of State Maintenance sign, for three days.
- 8.1 miles of SR 493 in Lauderdale County, from SR 495 to the Kemper County line, for three days.
- 10.3 miles of SR 21 in Noxubee County, from the Kemper County line to SR 39, for five days.
“Motorists are reminded that there will be lane closures along these routes during chip seal operations,” said Simmons. “Again, please slow down and pay attention. It is important to be extra cautious of potential loose material during the sealing and for a short time after.”
Work zones present new traffic patterns and configurations that may be unfamiliar to motorists. For information about how to navigate highway work zones safely, visit GoMDOT.com/drivesmartms.
To stay updated on the days and times chip seal operations take place, visit MDOTtraffic.com. Download the free MDOT Traffic app or like and follow @MississippiDOT on social media.