The Mississippi Lottery Corporation (MLC) has announced it has deposited a total of over $47.2m to the state since November 2019 following the completion of its April transfer of more than $9.7m to the Lottery Proceeds Fund in the Mississippi State Treasury.
MLC President Tom Shaheen stated: “We are pleased to be able continue to raise funds to benefit Mississippi’s roads, bridges and education. Yesterday, the Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) announced the awarding of initial paving contracts using lottery dollars. It is exciting to play a part in these developments that will benefit Mississippians!”
The MLC oversees the sale of lottery tickets in the regions was created in 2018 by the Alyce G Clarke Mississippi Lottery Law. In accordance with that law, the organisation is required to transfer net proceeds within 20 days following the close of each calendar month.
The law designated the first $80m of net lottery proceeds annually for state roads and bridges. The Transportation Commission designated all lottery proceeds for pavement restoration projects.
Commissioner Tom King, Chair of the Mississippi Transportation Commission, commented: “MDOT is so appreciative of the legislature for designating a portion of the lottery proceeds to Mississippi’s maintenance needs. These funds will help MDOT ensure our highways stay safe for the traveling public. We aren’t wasting any time utilizing these funds. MDOT’s already awarded numerous projects throughout the state and you will see them start moving forward quickly.”
Commissioner Willie Simmons, Central Transportation District, added: “This money isn’t just going into Mississippi’s highways, it’s going to the people as well. These projects will not only enhance people’s quality of life, they will also supply jobs for so many people throughout the state.”
As a result of the MLC’s deposits, multiple MDOT schemes will now receive contracts such as Warren Paving for a 1-mile mill and overlay project on US Highway 49 from US Highway 90 to 28th Street in Harrison County.
A complete list of MDOT projects using lottery net proceeds can be found here.
