GREENVILLE, Miss. (AP) State transportation officials say budget constraints have brought the U.S. Highway 82 bypass project in Greenville to a standstill.

Erik Arnold, the project engineer, told the Delta Democrat Times that phase one was completed in November between the Mississippi River Bridge to a half-mile east of Mississippi Highway 1.

The $32 million four-phase project started in March of 2008.

Mississippi Department of Transportation officials say construction can begin immediately once funds become available.

Arnold said the plans are ready, utilities are moved, and the right of way has been bought.

The second phase would pick up at Highway 1 with grading and drainage extending to Leland. Paving will be completed in phases three and four.

Arnold said the project is a high priority for MDOT.

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