The Mississippi Department of Transportation began funding statewide pavement restoration projects in April via money provided from lottery proceeds.

[Above photo by the Mississippi DOT.]

“MDOT is so appreciative of the legislature for designating a portion of the lottery proceeds to Mississippi’s maintenance needs [and] these funds will help ensure our highways stay safe for the traveling public,” noted Tom King, chair of the Mississippi Transportation Commission, in a statement.

“We aren’t wasting any time utilizing these funds,” he added. “MDOT’s already awarded numerous projects throughout the state and you will see them start moving forward quickly.”

The agency said it awarded funds for seven pavement restoration projects in April, with another 12 bids for similar contracts issued in May.

The Alyce G. Clark Mississippi Lottery Law – enacted during an August 2018 special legislative session – created the Mississippi Lottery Corporation to oversee the sale of lottery tickets and also designated the first $80 million of net lottery proceeds annually for state road and bridge maintenance needs.

Subsequently, the state’s transportation commission designated all lottery proceeds for pavement restoration projects.

“This money isn’t just going into Mississippi’s highways; it’s going to the people as well,” added Commissioner Willie Simmons, who represents the state’s Central Transportation District. “These projects will not only enhance the people’s quality of life; they will also supply jobs for many people throughout the state.”