Gautier awarded grant to design Dolphin Drive project

Gautier has been awarded $1.2 million through the Federal Railroad Administration’s grant program to eliminate railroad crossings to fund a design of the Dolphin Drive at the CSX Railroad crossing.

A 2022 feasibility study recommended converting the crossing at Dolphin Drive to an elevated bridge. This federal funding grant is critical in supporting the design phase of the project.

The project will reduce the risk of accidents, alleviate traffic and enhance overall public safety and mobility in the community. Additional funding is expected to be sought for the construction once the design is complete.

The project addresses long-standing concerns for Gautier residents and emergency service providers, as frequent train blockages disrupt daily commutes, create safety
hazards, and delays emergency responses.

With more than 30 incidents annually where emergency services are hindered, this improvement will ensure uninterrupted access for residents, emergency responders, and law enforcement.

“Residents of Gautier have been dealing with rail grade crossing delays for many years. The grant to design the grade-separation solution is a positive step forward. This project could decrease accidents, ease traffic congestion, and improve the overall safety of the community,” said Sen. Roger Wicker (R-Miss.)

Congressman Mike Ezell who represents the citizens of Gautier supported the project saying, “I am thrilled that the City of Gautier has been awarded $1.2 million for the
Dolphin Drive/CSX Railroad Grade Separation Project. This project will not only enhance traffic flow but also improve safety for residents. I was proud to support its approval and I’m excited to see it move forward.”

“This funding allows us to move forward with addressing long-standing access and safety concerns,” said Mayor Casey Vaughan and City Manager Paula Yancey in a
joint statement. “The design phase is a critical step toward ensuring our residents and first responders can move safely and freely through Gautier. We are grateful to the FRA and our congressional delegation for their support in the investment of this project.”