![GWJ-MLK-DAY[73] copy](https://www.cityofjackson.org/ImageRepository/Document?documentId=10437)
Rendering of what the new streetscape will look like on S. MLK Drive at High Street.
A long-awaited construction project to revitalize the S. MLK Drive corridor for future redevelopment is getting underway. On Monday, May 5, the City of Jackson is closing the southbound lane of S. MLK Drive between Morrell and High streets for the first phase of construction.
Drivers will only be able to use the northbound lane of S. MLK through Nov. 2025 as crews reconstruct the street, first addressing the water main and sewer systems. The overall goal of the S. MLK Drive project is to improve the streetscape for the ongoing redevelopment of Jackson’s south side. Reducing the street width will calm traffic, improve pedestrian connectivity and provide more parking, along with increasing room for lighting and green space.
The City is using a $6.7 million grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation to fund nearly half of the project. The second phase of the project will continue in 2026, with construction centering on S. MLK Drive from High to South streets. Preparatory work started in 2024 with lead service line replacements at properties along S. MLK Drive.
S. MLK Drive is a major street with a mix of businesses and homes. It connects Jackson’s south side neighborhoods to Downtown Jackson and Summit Township, where it turns into Francis Street.
A detour will be posted, directing traffic to use E. Morrell Street, S. Cooper Street and W. High Street to get around the closure. Access will be maintained to homes and businesses throughout the construction project. Weekly updates about construction progress will be sent out through the City’s CodeRED mass communication system. Residents wanting to get weekly updates are asked to email Assistant City Engineer Jeff Crow at jcrow@cityofjackson.org.
The City’s Engineering Division has planned 40 infrastructure improvement projects for 2025, including street resurfacing, water service replacements, pedestrian trail work, and reconstructing traffic signals. A full 2025 planned construction project list and interactive map can be found on the City website.