Video: NEMCC Gets Grant for Sidewalks

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BOONEVILLE, Miss.– Construction of new sidewalks and crosswalks and renovation of current sidewalks that adjoin Northeast Mississippi Community College’s campus to the Booneville City Park is scheduled to begin in the spring of 2015 thanks to a grant awarded to the college by the Mississippi Department of Transportation.

At its regularly scheduled June Board of Trustees meeting, Northeast president Dr. Johnny L. Allen informed the Board of the approved $881,000 grant, which requires a 20 percent match to install additional lighting.

“We take great pride in providing a safe and secure campus environment for our students and guests,” Allen said. “ This grant will allow us to improve pedestrian safety for those who use the sidewalks on our campus as well as the walking trails, softball and baseball fields at Booneville City Park.”

In addition to the lighting, new sidewalks and crosswalks will be constructed along Cunningham Boulevard and Coach Billy Ward Drive. A new crosswalk will also be created on North Third St. linking the campus to the park.

Northeast’s director of finance Chris Murphy will serve as the project liaison for the college.

“The TAP (Transportation Alternative Project) grant awarded to Northeast by the Mississippi Department of Transportation will allow the college to provide upgrades to its infrastructure and provide a safer corridor along Coach Billy Ward Drive, connecting our campus to the Booneville City Park and its amenities,” Murphy explained.

“This grant will not only enhance the aesthetics of boulevard area, but provide a much needed upgrade to campus sidewalks and lighting so our health-conscious students and staff can have smooth, safe pathways for walking or jogging on campus that connect to the Booneville City Park Walking Trail. Also, as part of this project, crosswalks along Cunningham Boulevard will be upgraded and/or added for safer pedestrian crossing and handicap access.”

According to Travis G. Wampler, district LPA coordinator with MDOT, the majority of the funds have were provided by MDOT and the Federal Highway Administration through the Transportation Alternative Project program.

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