Natchez officials are seeking state funding to replace the deteriorating Canal Street Bridge, which is projected to become impassable within a few years. Construction of a new bridge is estimated at nearly $6 million. The Natchez Board of Aldermen agreed this week with Mayor Dan Gibson to request financial support from the Mississippi Legislature. According to city officials, the heavily used bridge has an estimated four years of serviceable life remaining. The state legislature, which began its annual session on January 6, has previously allocated funds to local governments for various infrastructure projects.
In northeast Louisiana, some Entergy customers may remain without power until Saturday following the recent winter storm. Entergy Vice President of Customer Service Nika Scott said winter restoration work is particularly challenging due to ice, hazardous road conditions, and broader damage than initially anticipated. Scott reported that crews restored power to approximately 20,000 customers on Wednesday and expect continued progress over the next two days.
Mississippi Blood Services is urging donors to give blood after the winter storm reduced donations statewide. The agency reports a particular need for O-negative and B-negative blood types, though all donors are encouraged to participate. Whole blood donors will receive a $20 Visa gift card for donations made this week, and platelet donors will receive a $50 Visa gift card.
A 17-year-old male has been arrested in connection with the killing of 73-year-old Ruby Lee Peterson, who was found stabbed to death Tuesday evening in her Bastrop apartment in Morehouse Parish. The Morehouse Parish Sheriff’s Office reports that deputies arrested Amir Dowles on Wednesday. He is charged with second-degree murder. Investigators have not identified a motive, and Dowles is not cooperating with authorities. The only known connection between Dowles and Peterson at this time is that they lived in the same apartment complex.
The Mississippi River at Natchez-Vidalia is at 17.06 feet and falling.
