Mississippi DOT faces staffing shortages, storm repair delays, and mowing issues

Staffing shortages at the Mississippi Department of Transportation are causing delays in road maintenance, particularly in the northern district, according to Transportation Commissioner John Caldwell. Caldwell said roads in that area are going uncut as August approaches.

“We’re doing pretty good with our contractors, they’re cutting pretty well on schedule. But the places where we have to do it ourselves, our shorthandedness is putting us really behind,” Caldwell said. He added that some highways in the northern district have yet to be maintained this season.

Caldwell also inquired about MDOT’s contract management, noting complaints from legislators seeking updates on projects. He said weather and extended project timelines are factors complicating scheduling.

In the southern district, storm damage repairs are disrupting travel. Charles Busby, the district commissioner, highlighted ongoing work on Highway 26, which was affected by heavy rains in June, and the closure of the Roy Cumbest Bridge on Wade Vancleave Road.

“It’s creating a major, major inconvenience for people in that area,” Busby said. MDOT Executive Director Brad White assured that Highway 26 repairs are a top priority and that emergency contracts are likely to be used to expedite work.

During the meeting, Central District Commissioner Willie Simmons praised MDOT staff for completing projects along three major corridors before the upcoming harvest season. These projects included bridge repairs on Highway 12 in Humphreys County, Highway 8 in Sunflower County, and Highway 149 in Yazoo County. Simmons emphasized the importance of opening these routes to reduce disruptions caused by large trucks during harvest time.

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