Law enforcement presence beefed up on 19

Drivers are being warned to slow down and be careful along a five-mile construction zone on Highway 19 south after two fatal crashes last week.

“Highway 19 South of Philadelphia has become a deadly highway in the past few weeks,” said Neshoba County Sheriff Eric Clark in a social media post on Sunday.

Portable flashing signs warning the stretch is a no-passing zone and the speed limit is 45 mph were moved in by MDOT last week. 

Clark said his department has increased traffic patrols in the area. State Troopers have also been more noticeable on the stretch of roadway.

“I have deputies enforcing traffic violations on Highway 19 in and around the work zones,” Clark said. “Zero tolerance from this point forward on this roadway. My message is to please drive safe and guard against distracted driving. Pullover to text or to admire the road construction equipment working.”

Clark said the Mississippi Highway Patrol and MDOT  “are working diligently to help make this highway safer.” 

The flashing signs start at the top of Posey Hill and continue south to Tucker. The highway is being four-laned and several bridges are being replaced south of Tucker.

There have been six fatal wrecks on Highway 19 between Philadelphia and House this year.