City of Gulfport discusses Airport Road extension and I-10 overpass at public hearing

Working to interconnect Gulfport, a public hearing was held at Gulfport Premium Outlets where the community asked questions and made comments on new construction for the Airport Road extension and I-10 overpass.

With a federal commitment of $20 million and partnership with the county, Mayor Billy Hewes feels good that construction plans will be approved.

Hewes stressed these public hearings are an important opportunity to hear concerns and input from the community.

Tonight’s hearing also included a necessary environmental assessment and next is the permitting process. Mayor Hewes said, “If it becomes reality, it’s going to address some major congestion issues we have, but it’s also going to provide some connectivity between communities and some safety as well so if you travel this area, particularly on the weekend or the holidays, you know that traffic can back up very dangerously on to 49 and sometimes onto I-10 and so it’s much needed.”

Mayor Hewes tells News 25 most concerns have been addressed like flooding and engineering. He hopes the overpass will create a safer Gulfport.