JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) – Crews with the Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) are working to restore lighting along Interstate 20 and State Street in Jackson. However, they said vandals are slowing the progress by stealing newly installed wire before it can be powered up.

Central District Transportation Commissioner Willie Simmons said the thefts are not only dangerous to those who used the roads, but they’re also costly. He said the crimes have delayed a more than $1 million lighting project meant to improve safety across Jackson’s interchanges.

“As fast as we can work contract and put in lights up, we have an individual to go out and steal the company. That is just so frustrating,” said Simmons.

Garver Engineering is conducting an anti-theft study to help prevent future incidents.

MDOT officials urged residents to stay alert and report suspicious activity.