Highway 19 paving to Tucker begins

Paving began this week on the $35.6 million four-landing of Highway 19 south from Philadelphia to Tucker.

MDOT spokesman Michael Flood said the project consists of grade and paving two additional lanes of Highway 19 from Tucker to Philadelphia for a total length of 4.62 miles.

“Expanding this stretch of roadway to four lanes,” Flood said. “Along with new grading and paving, will offer smoother rider conditions. It will also greatly increase safe driving conditions and traffic efficiency along SR 19.”

Work underway includes clearing and grubbing, removal of topsoil, installation of erosion control items, unclassified excavation, excess excavation, box bridge construction, pipe installation, sand blanket installation, soil-cement and lime treatment of the sub-grade, and paving operations have started in different areas, Flood said.

The $35.6 million project was awarded to Philadelphia’s W.G. Yates and Son Construction Company and has a projected completion date of summer 2024. Flood said MDOT received their notice to proceed in April of 2021.

He warned motorists to drive with caution on the stretch of road while construction is underway.

“Motorists in the area are reminded to drive slow and distraction free through the area,” Flood said. “And please be patient to allow our crews the time and space to safely complete this project as quickly and safely as possible.” 

Flood said that those interested can stay updated on this project’s progress and get traffic alerts at MDOTtraffic.com or by following @MississippiDOT on Facebook and Twitter.