Following a bridge inspection in April, Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) bridge engineers were forced to shut down a pair of U.S. 51 bridges between Tithelo Rd. and Way Rd., located 8.5 miles north of Canton, after discovering timber pile deterioration underneath.
Due to the deterioration, MDOT bridge engineers made the decision to replace the nearly 100-year-old bridges in a project that should start later this year.
The bridge replacement project is expected to be let in a special letting later this month and will include the replacement of five bridges in the area. Preliminary work such as design planning and erosion control efforts are underway, with a notice to proceed expected this fall.
Officials expect the first two bridges that are closed (located between Tithelo Rd. and Way Rd.) to be replaced and reopened during the fall of 2026. The other three bridges are expected to be completed by the fall of 2028.
“These are old bridges that have taken on much more traffic than they were designed for over many decades, which has compromised safety on these bridges,” said Mississippi Transportation Commission Chairman Willie Simmons. “We understand closing this stretch of U.S. 51 is an inconvenience for those that live in the area and must travel around the closure, but it is important to understand the necessity of this project from a public safety standpoint. Rest assured, we are going to get this project underway and executed as quickly and efficiently as possible.”
While replacing the bridges requires a longer closure timeframe, the long-term benefits of safer and more reliable bridges cannot be overstated. In addition to the safety benefits, the new U.S. 51 bridges will provide better access to businesses and residents throughout the area.
“I applaud MDOT’s bridge inspectors and engineers for identifying these issues before the bridges were at risk of failure,” said Simmons. “When dealing with aging infrastructure, bridge replacement projects like this are a critical step in preserving and improving Mississippi’s transportation network. Safety is our utmost priority when it comes to infrastructure projects, and the replacement of these bridges are no exception.”
During the closures, drivers should utilize an alternate route and stay out of the closure area. MDOT will provide updates as the projects progress.
Stay updated on this project and others at MDOTtraffic.com, download the MDOT Traffic mobile app and follow @MississippiDOT on Facebook and X.
