FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
UPDATED – February 13, 2021
MAYOR ISSUES PROCLAMATION OF CIVIL EMERGENCY AS JACKSON PREPARES FOR INCLEMENT WEATHER
City Prepares to Close Bridges, Anticipates Water Disruptions, Asks Residents to Stay Home on Monday
** Updates include new phone number for Opportunity Center (601-949-3540) and JTRAN details.
(JACKSON, MS) – City of Jackson Mayor Chokwe Antar Lumumba this evening issued a proclamation declaring a civil emergency for the entire City of Jackson in anticipation of inclement weather over the weekend and into next week. Severe cold temperatures are expected over the next several days that could lead to light ice accumulation on bridges and overpasses. The worst of the weather could be entering the area on Monday into Monday night. The City and Department of Public Works will continue to monitor the weather over the weekend, and send updates as available.
Roads & Bridges:
The Department of Public Works will be closing five bridge structures starting late Sunday around 6 p.m. to deter motorists from driving over elevated bridge overpasses that could accumulate heavy ice. The City plans to put sand out on bridge structures starting at noon Sunday. The expectation of deteriorating weather conditions on Monday will limit the ability to treat bridge structures safely.
As we head into Presidents Day weekend, the City encourages all residents to shop on Saturday and Sunday and stay at home on Monday. The City also advises motorists to limit travel on Tuesday morning due to possible icy road conditions.
Bridge Structures Closed to Traffic beginning at 6 p.m. Sunday, February 14:
- Woodrow Wilson Avenue
- Pearl Street
- Bailey Avenue Extension
- Fortification Street
- Mayes Street
Water:
Residents should also expect disruptions in the water distribution system due to water main breaks. The City encourages residents to conserve water during this time and please call 311 if they are experiencing low water pressure or no water at their residence or business. Residents should also call 311 to report any visible water main breaks in the distribution system. On Monday, residents can call 601-960-1875 to report low water pressure. (311 and City offices will be closed Monday in observance of Presidents Day.)
Shelter:
The City of Jackson will open a cold-weather shelter beginning Friday, February 12, 2021 – Friday, February 19, 2021, at Champions Gym located at 1355 Hattiesburg St., please contact the Opportunity Center at 601-949-3540 to reserve a bed.
JTRAN:
JTRAN has suspended service effective 10:00 am Saturday, February, 13, due to street conditions and will remain closed through Monday, February 15, 2021, due to forecasted weather conditions. If weather permits on Tuesday, February 16, 2021, JTRAN will resume regular services. Customers should stay tuned to media outlets for updates.
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