Adams County board urges state, federal help to replace Canal Street Bridge

The Adams County Board of Supervisors voted to adopt a resolution asking the Mississippi Department of Transportation and federal partners to help fund replacement of the Canal Street Bridge.

The mayor told the board the bridge has required repeated emergency repairs since 2023, the county has spent nearly $1 million on repairs and engineers now estimate a full replacement will cost about $5,800,000. He said the bridge’s load capacity has been reduced to protect public safety and that a more modern structure could be built while retaining the bridge’s historic appearance.

Board members said the county has already secured a $2 million federal earmark and will press the state legislature and congressional delegation for additional funding. Supervisor Wilson moved the resolution, Supervisor Gaines seconded, and the board approved the measure by voice vote.

The resolution asks state and federal partners to continue financial assistance and cooperation for design and replacement work. County staff said engineering assessments show the bridge will need replacement within four years without additional funds or a replacement plan.

The board did not set a construction schedule during the meeting; staff said further design and coordination with MDOT and federal grant processes remain to be completed.

“Replacement will preserve the historic look while building a stronger, wider span to serve emergency vehicles and commercial traffic,” the mayor said during his remarks.

Next steps identified by staff include pursuing additional earmarks, following up with MDOT on design approvals, and returning to the board with updates as grant applications and funding commitments progress.