SOUTHAVEN, MS – The Southaven Board of Aldermen held a productive meeting Tuesday night, focusing on key regulatory updates and significant infrastructure advancements.
The most impactful decision of the evening was the approval and adoption of the 2024 Building Codes and 2024 Fire Codes. These updated regulations are set to take effect on Jan. 1, 2026. This adoption marks a commitment to modern safety standards and future-proofing the city’s infrastructure.
In his Mayor’s Report, Mayor Darren Musselwhite addressed citizen concerns regarding the upcoming National Guard presence in Memphis. He confirmed that he and Police Chief Seth Kern have been in conversations with residents and emphasized that the Southaven Police Department is fully prepared and united with other local area agencies. He stressed the department’s zero-tolerance policy for any potential disturbances, signaling a strong commitment to public safety.
Several important infrastructure initiatives received the green light, promising improvements to local traffic flow and road safety:
Starlanding Road Improvements: An engineering work authorization was approved for two critical projects on Starlanding Road. The first will involve grading the hill on the westbound lane just east of Swinnea Road to improve visibility and safety. The second, and perhaps more significant, authorizes the design, survey, and construction of signalization for the busy Swinnea/Starlanding intersection. This project aims to alleviate congestion and enhance safety at this major junction.
Road Widening Projects Nearing Completion: The Mayor also reported that the Nail Road and Snowden Lane widening projects are “almost complete,” with drone photos of the progress expected to be released soon.
Beautification Work to Begin: Finally, work is scheduled to begin next week on the brickwork and sign installation at the Rasco/Highway 51 intersection, which will enhance the aesthetic appeal of a major entryway into the city.
Bob Bakken provides content for DeSoto County News and its social media channels. He is an award-winning broadcaster, along with being a reporter and photographer, and has done sports media relations work with junior and minor league hockey teams. Along with his reports on this website, you will find this veteran media member providing sports updates and high school football play-by-play on Rebel 95.3 FM Radio.
