Mississippi Transportation Commission Chairman Willie Simmons joined Meridian Community College (MCC) officials to celebrate the completion of a new sidewalk system, a project designed to make the campus safer, more accessible and more welcoming for students, staff, and community. The sidewalks, along with new lighting, seating, and fencing, were officially celebrated with a ribbon cutting ceremony held May 1.
The new sidewalk winds around the entire MCC campus and was designed to meet ADA specifications. It features seating areas and updated lighting for evening use to help students, staff, and guests find their way. In addition to the sidewalk, a newly installed fence along Perimeter Drive enhances the look and security of the campus.
The sidewalks are built of concrete, with an average width of 5 feet and reinforced materials to handle both foot traffic and Mississippi weather conditions. Strategic drainage improvements were made during the project to prevent water pooling, making the pathways safer year-round.
MDOT Commissioner Simmons and MCC President Dr. Huebner
“We are in the business of improving safety. As Commissioner, let me tell you, this campus is safer and more secure today thanks to the new ADA-compliant sidewalks, pedestrian lighting and fencing,” said Commissioner Simmons. “Enhancing pedestrian infrastructure on this beautiful campus helps ensure every MCC student, faculty member and visitor can move around safely and confidently.”
This project was funded in large part through a Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) grant of up to $638,400. MCC was responsible for a 20 percent local match. Officials said the MDOT grant was vital to completing the sidewalk.
“We are incredibly thankful for MDOT’s partnership,” said MCC President Dr. Tom Huebner. “Without their investment, we could not have made this happen so quickly. This sidewalk, combined with new lighting, seating, and fencing, is a transformational project for our campus.”
Approved in February 2022, the project took three years to complete from planning to final construction. Meridian-based company, Engineering Plus, served as the lead engineering firm on the project.
MDOT Commissioner Simmons and MCC President Dr. Huebner walk along a new sidewalk.
MCC officials said the new sidewalks are part of a larger effort to create a more welcoming and safer environment for students.
“Having a campus that students can walk comfortably and safely is critical,” Huebner said. “This project, and all the recent renovations across campus, show our students that we want them here and that we are intentionally creating spaces with them in mind. It’s not just about how it looks—it’s about how it makes our students feel.”
The sidewalk is already being used by students and staff walking between classes, exercising, and gathering around the new seating areas.
MDOT’s Local Public Agencies (LPA) Division oversees the planning, design and construction of LPA projects funded by the Federal Highway Administration. For more information, visit GoMDOT.com.