Construction on the long-planned roundabout at the intersection of Highways 15 and 16 in Philadelphia, Mississippi, will officially kick off at 9 a.m. Monday, according to the Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT).
The project timeline was advanced after crews completed installation of the temporary traffic signal earlier than anticipated. The signal, located in front of Tolbert Chevrolet, is now in full operation and intended to guide motorists safely through the shifting traffic pattern during the upgrade.
The portion of Hwy. 15/16 affected by the overhaul will remain fully closed until the project wraps up, a milestone MDOT estimates will take at least through June 2026. Officials say drivers should be prepared for increased congestion and slower travel through the area for the duration of the construction.
MDOT is urging drivers in the area to slow down and pay attention to the signal, particularly during peak travel times and school commute hours. The agency also emphasized the importance of avoiding distracted driving as crews and heavy equipment occupy the site daily.
Roundabouts have been increasingly adopted across Mississippi and the U.S. as a safety measure to reduce severe crashes and improve traffic flow. When complete, this new design is expected to support economic growth around the busy commercial corridor, which includes auto dealerships, retail centers and community destinations.
Residents in Philadelphia and Neshoba County are encouraged to remain alert for future traffic updates and detour information. Local businesses are expected to remain open throughout the construction period, though accessibility and entry routes may shift as phases of the project progress.
For updates and additional details, MDOT plans to share alerts through its traffic advisory system and social media channels as work continues into next year.
Originally reported by Kicks 96 News.
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