Months turned into years and the bumps and barrels along Seargent S. Prentiss Drive and Liberty Road made quite a few local enemies.

The construction lasted for what sometimes seemed an agonizingly long time.

Some businesses along the highway suffered, others just dealt with the complaints of customers.

But now, with the finished project clearly in sight, the end is near.

A few barrels remain, as workers overlay the roads leading into the bridge, but it won’t be long now.

And it’s worth it.

Though it still may be difficult for those most directly impacted by the work to believe it, this project is good for Natchez.

The Liberty Road bridge was a contractor’s dream, because it was unique. Our bridge is like no other, and that’s appropriate because Natchez is like no other. It will be a true gateway to our city that welcomes wallet-toting visitors with open arms.

We are fortunate that the state decided to spend their dollars in our city.

The project makes one of the entrances to our city gorgeous. It’s time to take a serious look at the other gateways and do what’s necessary to welcome people to our town from all directions.