🚧 Join Us for the September Chamber Luncheon! 🚧

We're excited to have Willie Simmons, Central Commissioner of the Mississippi Department of Transportation, as our keynote speaker! 🗣️ He'll be sharing valuable insights into MDOT projects within Warren County, with a special focus on the Dick Hall Hospitality Station—also known as the Welcome Center on Washington Street.

This is your chance to hear firsthand about the future of transportation and infrastructure in our region, and how these projects will enhance our community. Don't miss this opportunity to connect with fellow Chamber members, learn about key initiatives, and get an inside look at what's ahead for Vicksburg.

Reserve your spot today and be part of the conversation shaping Vicksburg’s future!

Willie Simmons is entering his first term as Central District Transportation Commissioner which covers 22 counties with a population of approximately one million people.

Simmons served as a Mississippi State Senator for more than 26 years. For the last 8 years, he served as Chairman of the Senate Highways and Transportation Committee. Under his leadership in the Senate, over $5B was spent throughout the state on the construction and upgrade of federal and state roads, county and municipal streets and bridges; also, millions of dollars on public transit, ports railroads, airports and other infrastructure support systems. He played an integral role on projects such as the repair of the Woodrow Wilson Bridge in Jackson; the upgrade and repair of Highway 8 in Cleveland; the Highway 82 Bypass in Leland among many others. He also served as Chairman of the Corrections Committee and Vice Chairman of the Public Health and Welfare Committee.

Simmons served as Deputy Commissioner of Corrections prior to joining the Mississippi State Senate. Before that time, he served as a combat veteran of the Vietnam War. He is a graduate of Alcorn State University; and received M. S. Degree and Ed.S. Degree from Delta State University. He is married to Rose Sibley Simmons and they have four children and ten grandchildren.