Four years after its closure due to structural damage, the main post office in Poplarville remains unbuilt. Residents are struggling with mail security, weather exposure, and poor working conditions as postal workers sort packages on the ground outside a temporary mobile unit.
The site was supposed to start construction in October, but no work has been done since then. The rise of online shopping has overwhelmed local postal employees, who have to sort packages in the parking lot due to the lack of indoor storage space. Residents say this is not only causing frustration but also creating barriers for elderly and disabled individuals.
The original post office building had severe termite damage and a collapsed ceiling, which led to its closure. Local leaders initially thought it would be a temporary issue, but progress has been slow. The U.S. Postal Service has yet to respond to requests for an explanation of the delay. As the holiday season approaches, concerns about mail security and working conditions are growing.
Without a permanent solution, the problem is expected to worsen as Pearl River County continues to grow. Residents are urging local leaders and federal officials to take action to address the issue.
Source: https://www.mississippifreepress.org/poplarville-delivered-false-promises-on-post-office-plans-residents-say