Pathways project to continue in Sept.

The second phase of the Oxford Pathways project will begin in September with contractor bidding.

This project is establishing new sidewalks, biking routes and paths throughout Oxford.

The first phase included building new pathways along Molly Barr and Old Taylor roads, which began at the beginning of the summer.

The Oxford Pathways Commission was the driving force behind this project.

Their goal is to increase transportation and establish more opportunities of recreation among Oxford residents, as well as University of Mississippi students.

“The main bulk of this project is going to extend bike lanes out of the center of town in four directions: South Lamar, North Lamar, Old Taylor Road and Highway 314,” said Kevin McLeod, an engineer with Elliot and Britt, the design consultants for the project.

With the bid of contractors taking place Tuesday, Sept. 7, construction will take place four to six weeks later. This project is estimated at $2.4 million, and is also enabled by the Mississippi Department of Transportation, Oxford Mayor Pat Patterson, the Board of Aldermen, Congressman Roger Wicker and Oxford residents.