Appreciates much-needed improvements
On Page 8A of the June 25, 2014, Dispatch, I see the article titled “Highway loop construction nears end.” I want to publicly thank our Northern District Highway Commissioner Mike Tagert and U. S. senators Thad Cochran and Roger Wicker for obtaining federal money and constructing this much needed Highway 45 Alternate northbound loop near the area once known as “The Crossroads.”
Three years ago this summer my family was headed south at this intersection we passed a wreck in which several people were killed. On our return from that trip, we saw another wreck at this very intersection.
Traveling back to Columbus from Mississippi State football, basketball and baseball games, we have over the years experienced bottlenecks and witnessed several accidents at West Point/Meridian exit. It was past time to do something about this situation, but it took several recorded accidents and deaths to get this loop built.
At first I approached Columbus Mayor Robert Smith and Lowndes County Board of Supervisor Harry Sanders about a much needed cloverleaf, they both referred me to Northern District Highway Commissioner Mike Tagert.
I called Mr. Tagert, and he stayed in touch with me and researched that intersection. He asked me to contact my U. S. senators, and he kept me informed. Last fall when construction began, I texted a simple “thank you.”
I hope all citizens of Lowndes County and alumni of Mississippi State University and East Mississippi Junior College will also thank Northern District Commissioner Mike Tagert, but we must also ask for three more loops to complete the cloverleaf at this intersection.
There needs to be a better, longer lighted entrance at the left turn to Columbus coming from West Point under the overpass. Lighting at this intersection is so important at night time for our safety. Just look how the lighted entrance at Columbus’ first exit has improved the safety of our city.
Thanks again to Northern District Highway Commissioner Mike Tagert for your dedication to the safety of our citizens of the state of Mississippi.
Alice Stallworth Lancaster
Columbus
The Dispatch Editorial Board is made up of publisher Peter Imes, columnist Slim Smith, managing editor Zack Plair and senior newsroom staff.
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