MCC celebrates new campus sidewalk with ribbon cutting
Meridian Community College marked a major investment in campus life with the completion of a new sidewalk system, a project designed to make the campus safer, more accessible, and more welcoming for students, staff, and community.
The sidewalks, along with new lighting, seating, and fencing, were officially celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony held May 1.
The new sidewalk winds around the entire MCC campus and was designed to meet ADA specifications. It features seating areas and updated lighting for evening use to help students, staff, and guests find their way. In addition to the sidewalk, a newly installed fence along Perimeter Drive enhances the look and security of the campus.
The sidewalks are built of concrete, with an average width of 5 feet and reinforced materials to handle both foot traffic and Mississippi weather conditions. Strategic drainage improvements were made during the project to prevent water pooling, making the pathways safer year-round.
This project was funded in large part through a Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) grant of up to $638,400. MCC was responsible for a 20 percent local match. Officials said the MDOT grant was vital to completing the sidewalk.
“MDOT is in the business of improving safety. As Commissioner, let me tell you, this campus is safer and more secure today thanks to the new ADA-compliant sidewalks, pedestrian lighting, and fencing,” said Mississippi Transportation Commission Chairman Willie Simmons. “Enhancing pedestrian infrastructure on this beautiful campus helps ensure every MCC student, faculty member, and visitor can move around safely and confidently.”
College officials are thankful for MDOT’s partnership. "Without their investment, we could not have made this happen so quickly. This sidewalk, combined with new lighting, seating, and fencing, is a transformational project for our campus," said MCC President Dr. Tom Huebner.
Approved in February 2022, the project took three years to complete from planning to final construction. Meridian-based company, Engineering Plus, served as the lead engineering firm on the project.
The new sidewalks are part of a larger effort to create a more welcoming and safe environment for students.
"Having a campus that students can walk comfortably and safely is critical," Huebner said.
Kimberly Rush, MCC associate dean of advising, retention, and student success, said, “This and all the other renovations on campus are transformational and show the students that we want them here and we are creating intentional spaces with them in mind.”
The sidewalk is already being used by students and staff walking between classes, exercising, and gathering around the new seating areas.
For more information, visit meridiancc.edu.