Dozens of Jackson streets are receiving improvements this year during the street construction season. The 2025 season ramps up in May with the first phase of the S. MLK Drive reconstruction project.
S. MLK Drive between High and Morrell streets will be down to one lane through Nov. 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.
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.