Work on Fort Bayou drawbridge moving forward in Jackson County

HATTIESBURG, MISS. – Work on the Fort Bayou drawbridge is moving forward as crews diligently work to repair and reopen the bridge.

The Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) closed the drawbridge on March 14 for a repair project and plan to reopen it late May.

Currently, on the north side of the drawbridge, two bearings have been reinstalled and the bridge has been painted. On the south side, one of the two bearings has been reinstalled. Until both bearings are reinstalled, the south side of the bridge will remain unbolted from its foundation and lifted on jacks.

The last bearing is being reconstructed at a machine shop; once complete crews will be able to reinstall the final bearing.

“It’s a good thing we found the damage now because another year or two without necessary repairs could have forced the bridge to be down and unable to open for six to eight months,” said Project Engineer Jason Winders. “We appreciate the patience from the public; we are working around the clock and our guys are working seven days a week. We’re going to put this bridge back in working order as soon as possible.”

Drivers are advised to avoid the area and follow detour signs in place for the remainder of the closure.

This project was awarded to C.E.C., Inc., of Lafayette, Louisiana. The bridge is expected to reopen to traffic in late May, while the entire project is expected to be completed late 2021.