Hattiesburg, Mississippi – The rebuilding of Lamar Boulevard is one of the more anticipated road projects in Hattiesburg’s recent history, and construction begins this week to turn it into a true boulevard with the removal and replacement of .7 miles of roadway.
“Businesses and residents have waited a long time to see improvements to Lamar Boulevard,” said Mayor Toby Barker. “This project, made possible through state and federal grants associated with the Regions Mortgage Center, will transform one of the worst roads in Hattiesburg into one of the best and serve as a catalyst for future development in this important growth corridor.”
Over time, the lack of inlets and poor subbase has led to increased deterioration of the existing roadway. Additionally, there was a need for new infrastructure underground to accompany the arrival of the Regions Mortgage Center, as well as future development along this corridor.
Unfortunately, the lack of financial audits from Fiscal Years 2015 and 2016 delayed necessary funding for this project.
City officials began working in 2017 to bring all three audits up to date. With all financial matters in order, the City qualified for and received grants from the Economic Development Administration and the Mississippi Development Authority in 2019 to fund the installation of new sewer lines, drastically increase drainage capacity and rebuild the roadway with appropriate construction standards.
The last year has been spent investing in the underground infrastructure. This week, the contractor will begin construction on the roadway – removing and replacing the existing asphalt. The new roadway will consist of 42 drainage inlets, curb and gutters with a divided median.
Walters Construction was the lowest bid contractor. The total cost for this project is $2,032,391.15., and it is funded by the EDA contributing $1,700,000 and MDA and the City of Hattiesburg covering the final balance.
The project is estimated to take approximately one full year, which is dependent on weather.
During construction, the full extent of the road will receive improvement and traffic will be closed to thru traffic. However, it will be open for access to businesses and offices located right off of Hwy 98 and Lincoln Road.
Motorists are encouraged to use Hwy 98 to access businesses on the north side of Lamar Boulevard and to use Lincoln Road to access businesses on the south side of Lamar Boulevard. Office Park Drive will remain open.
For additional details, including a design of the project and traffic maps, see the documents below.
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CONCEPT DRAWINGS
TRAFFIC MAP
