New Utility Poles Going Up on Hwy. 49

If you’re out on Highway 49 in Gulfport this week, you might see crews raising new utility poles along the roadway.

Mississippi Power is assisting the Mississippi Department of Transportation (M.D.O.T.) in the widening of Highway 49 and 53 that requires the movement of the power poles. Mississippi Power expects to move more than 120 poles by November. Officials say the movement should not cause any power outages in the area.

Jeff Shepard, spokesman for Mississippi Power, says, “We’re not anticipating any service interruptions right now. When we switch our customers on to the new system, we’re going to notify them and let them know there may be a possible disruption, but it will be limited and we’ll let them know when that’s going to be.”

Shepard says the new poles and wiring will also enhance the security of power services in the area.