New and improved safety measures installed at dangerous intersection in Brandon

BRANDON, Miss. (WLBT) – As you drive down Highway 18, you will now see rumbling lanes, flashing stop signs and flashing warning signs at intersections.

“This should have happened. In some of these neighborhoods you go through, people just transport it down this road,” said Brandon resident Jeremy Ryan.

Some say it’s been a long time coming, and others, like Jeremiah White, are grateful for the progress.

“It’s a step forward, and I think whoever said, ‘Hey, we gotta come out here and get it done.’ I appreciate you all,” said White, who lives in Brandon.

MDOT Transportation Commissioner Chairman Willie Simmons says all of these measures will improve safety at the dangerous intersection.

“The loss of life we have suffered here is truly sad. I have children who are starting to drive, so as a parent I want to feel safe knowing that my children can come here and not have to worry about who will run into them, go against the light or try to go ,” says White. said.

After analyzing all the data, MDOT officials say installing a traffic light at the intersection would not be the safest approach.

Commissioner Simmons tells us there was pressure on MDOT leaders from residents to make improvements after a fatal collision in September. That crash killed 18-year-old Greyson Huff of Brandon.

“The citizens came out the night we were in Brandon, and they were very disturbed, very emotional because of yet another fatal accident. We don’t want accidents on our highways and we certainly don’t want fatalities. If the community has concerns, we as a commissioner want to address these issues,” said Commissioner Simmons.

Leaders with MDOT encourage all motorists to follow the speed limit and obey all traffic signs along the area.

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