Local Board of Supervisors President Speaks about Bridge Closures in the State

HATTIESBURG, MISS. - Forrest County does not have any bridges that were shut down by the federal government. However, the Forrest County Board of Supervisors, President David Hogan is sounding off, saying the supervisors need more money. Hogan advocates that wooden bridges should be turned into concrete bridges. Hogan says the board needs a consistent amount of money from the legislature to make that happen. “Last year, they gave us zero,” Hogan said. “This year, they did make it up and put 50 million into that program. That will help, but we need some more consistent long-range planning. It needs to be in that 50 to 100 million dollar range every year. Until the time comes that all the bridges in the state can be made concrete piling bridges, rather than having to worry about these wood piling ones deteriorating over time.” Once again, bridges in Forrest County are considered safe. However, no date has been set yet for a special session by the governor to address the issue affecting the surrounding counties.