Gautier residents frustrated with road closures in the city

Gautier residents are expressing their frustrations over roads being closed for maintenance work on the railroad.

The city announced the closure of Ladnier Road on Friday and and Saturday, as well as a planned closure of Dolphin Drive on October 29-30 for maintenance on the railroad crossing, after receiving word from CSX.

In a letter to residents, Mayor Casey Vaughn said the notice of a road closing is posted on the city’s website and social media as soon as the city is notified.

“Our police and fire departments are immediately notified and implement alternate procedures to ensure the safety of impacted citizens,” Vaughn said in the letter. “The City is actively working with our federal and state delegations, as well as CSX, on long-term solutions. We completed a railroad study and currently have a grant application under consideration by the Federal Railroad Administration to design an overpass, and we will continue to pursue every option.”

Vaughn also pointed out that CSX sets its own maintenance schedule and does not consult cities when setting that schedule.

“We truly appreciate your patience and understanding as we work toward safer, more efficient railroad crossings for everyone in Gautier.”