As mayor, I get asked a lot of questions – and often tops on that list is, “When are y’all going to finish Morgantown Road??” Well, I have good news: the long-anticipated completion of Morgantown Road is finally within reach and it’s happening soon! Working together, the city and the county are about to make life better for so many of our residents who rely on this critical corridor every day. After years of planning, coordination, and construction, the final phase of this complex project is set to begin within the next three weeks with final completion expected within six to seven months.
The first phase of the project was successfully completed in November 2025, concluding a 15-month effort that cost $3.68 million. That initial work focused on a full replacement of the roadbed and the installation of new drainage infrastructure from the city limits to Redd Loop Road, followed by resurfacing. This first phase was by far the most complicated, involving major upgrades to drainage and the relocation of public utilities in some areas. It had to be completed before moving forward with improvements within the city portion. While it required patience and perseverance, it laid the groundwork for what will be a much safer and more functional Morgantown Road.
This project stands as a strong example of collaboration and teamwork at its best. The City of Natchez has invested $2 million into the effort, and together with Adams County secured a Federal earmark of $2.5 million to help fund the work. Adams County has invested additional funds as well. This partnership has been instrumental in moving the project forward despite rising costs and logistical challenges.
Now, attention turns to the final phase, which we hope will be complete by early fall. Dozer Construction has been awarded the contract after a successful bid, and a pre-construction meeting is scheduled for next week. This phase will address the section of Morgantown Road from its beginning at Highway 61 to the city limits at Dixie Road. Planned improvements include replacing existing drainage pipes, re-grading drainage ditches, resurfacing the roadway, and tying in residential driveways to ensure proper access and water flow.
There is no question this has been a difficult and complicated project. In fact, the total cost comes close to exceeding what the city spent to pave nearly fifty streets just two years ago. However, the importance of Morgantown Road, both as a transportation route and as a drainage corridor, makes it a critical investment. When I ran to be your mayor, I made a commitment to see this project through to completion, and I am grateful that we are now entering the final stage.
I want to express my sincere gratitude to our Board of Aldermen and city staff for their leadership and commitment, and to our partners: the Adams County Board of Supervisors for
their cooperation, George Ford with IMS Engineering for his expertise, and Dozer Construction for stepping up to carry this project forward. I am grateful to our leaders in Jackson and Washington for their support, including the MS Department of Transportation, the MS Department of Environmental Quality, our Governor and Lt. Governor, and members of our United States Congressional delegation in both the House and Senate. Most importantly, I want to thank our citizens for their patience and understanding throughout this lengthy process.
As construction resumes, residents should be prepared for temporary inconveniences, including lane closures and possible detours. Motorists are urged to slow down, stay alert, and use caution when traveling through the work zone. While the disruptions may be frustrating, they are necessary to ensure the work is completed safely and effectively.
In the end, this is a case of “short-term pain and long-term gain”. Upon completion, Morgantown Road will be greatly improved and better equipped to handle drainage, benefiting the entire community for years to come. Safer and smoother rides are indeed in our future! Because Natchez Deserves More.
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