The Phase II improvements to Central Avenue are scheduled to begin this summer and are expected to be completed next year. This phase will extend the work completed during Phase I, which revitalized the 500 block of Central Avenue, and will address much-needed infrastructure upgrades.
Phase II will cover the area where Phase I ended and extend to Spec Wilson Boulevard. It will also include improvements to a portion of Magnolia Street from Library Street to Café LeFleur.
“Since the downtown area steadily provides economic development and tax revenue, I am excited about Phase II of Central Ave. project,” Ward 6 Councilwoman Grace Amos said.
Laurel Mayor Johnny Magee has praised the project and the city’s partnership with the Mississippi Department of Transportation who facilitates the grant process. “We are very pleased to be able to bring these improvements to Central Avenue that will make shopping downtown even more pleasant and convenient for our citizens and visitors,” he said.
The project will involve removing brick pavers, paving the street and sidewalks, upgrading the water and sewer services, and enhancing the drainage system.
Although there has been speculation about converting the intersection of Magnolia Street and Central Avenue into a roundabout, there is not enough room to execute such an installation so the intersection will remain a 4-way stop and will not be converted into a roundabout.
While the project is still out to bid, a significant portion of the estimated budget—$1.75 million—will be provided through federal funding.  The funding was awarded to the city during a ceremony at the Central Avenue roundabout last February. For more on that story, visit, https://www.laurelms.com/city-of-laurel-celebrates-approval-of-phase-ii-for-central-avenue/
Construction is expected to begin this summer and conclude next year.
These improvements aim to enhance the safety, durability, and functionality of Central Avenue, continuing Laurel’s efforts to create a more accessible and vibrant downtown.
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