April 14, 2025 -The Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) announced the loss of former Northern District Transportation Commissioner Zack Stewart.
Stewart was one of the longest serving Transportation Commissioners, serving the Northern Transportation District from 1984 until 2003. He was instrumental in the preparation, passage and implementation of the 1987 Four-Lane Highway Program, with some of the earliest projects being the four-lane expansion of Highway 72 in North Mississippi and Highway 78, now Interstate 22, connecting Memphis and Birmingham.
“In addition to leading the charge on a significant program that shaped transportation in our state through the passage of the 1987 Four-Lane Highway Program, Commissioner Stewart oversaw the transition of the State Highway Department into the Mississippi Department of Transportation,” said MDOT Executive Director Brad White. “His vision not only molded MDOT as it stands today, but really modernized Mississippi’s transportation network that will benefit future generations. We are grateful for his service and extend our deepest condolences to Commissioner Stewart’s family, friends and former colleagues.”
Stewart was known for his work ethic, dedication and love for his community. This was displayed though his actions in procuring the bridge across the Tallahatchie River in New Albany, so much that the Legislature has named the Highway 178/West Bankhead Street Bridge the “Zack Stewart Bridge.”
“Commissioner Stewart was a good man, fiercely loyal to family and friends, a fellow marine and a fighter for North Mississippi highways,” said Northern Transportation Commissioner John Caldwell. “His impact will endure for generations.”
Another landmark achievement the state experienced through Stewart’s leadership was the implementation of the inmate litter removal program. The program is still active today across the state, further beautifying Mississippi’s natural landscape along state roadways.
“Commissioner Zack Stewart, a legend, was a man of many great accomplishments in North Mississippi,” said Sen. Kathy Chism. “He was very much loved and will be greatly missed.”
