AARoads Forum

Again, another thread for smaller highway projects but specifically relating to the OKC Metro and surrounding area.

OTA has a plan to further complete the Kilpatrick/Hefner Interchange in 2018.

Kilpatrick LHP Direct Connects Kilpatrick Tpk 2018 $20,800,000 $350,000 $500,000 $21,650,000

https://www.pikepass.com/pdf/5%20Year%20Capital%20Plan.pdf

I-44/I-35 interchange is getting completely rebuilt starting in 2019. I-35 will be mainlined and six lanes through the interchange. I-44 will be 8 lanes from the interchange to MLK Blvd. Each ramp should have 2 lanes each way and will be direct connect flyovers.

There were two alternatives. I emailed ODOT and they told me they selected alternative 2.

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.awesomescreenshot.com%2Fupload%2F%2F146660%2F7c42283f-a5d7-4bf4-63b8-c6b01af2481e.png&hash=6342cb4fe300cbffbc9895bdbc90ebefad03ffd9)



Here are the meeting materials from ODOT: https://www.ok.gov/odot/Programs_and_Projects/Public_Meetings_and_Hearings/20151006.html

Waterloo Rd. and I-35 will become the site of the first DDI(Diverging Diamond Interchange) in Oklahoma.

(https://www.ok.gov/odot/images/Alternative%203_forweb.jpg)

They have officially selected the DDI and will begin construction in 2021 as currently planned.

Meeting materials here: https://www.ok.gov/odot/I-35_and_Waterloo_Road.html

ODOT is considering several different types of interchanges for I-40/I-40B interchange in Clinton. Several interesting interchanges which include a round-a-bout, rotary oval, DDI, SPUI, and a few others. Construction won't begin for awhile on this as ROW and utilities isn't even scheduled until 2023 with actual construction not even in the 8 year plan.

They can be viewed here: https://www.ok.gov/odot/Programs_and_Projects/Public_Meetings_and_Hearings/20160524.html

PluPan, I should never have told you about this board  :bigass:

Seriously, glad to see you mining the recesses of the ODOT website for true nuggets of good information.

hahaha I'm glad you did! Very good information here especially info about SoCal. ODOT's new website is nice. I'm still having trouble understanding how to view documents for projects that were put out to bid by city/county or just knowing what projects they will be without having to load the whole thing.

New possible half park deck might be coming to I-235 between OKC and the Innovation District.

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.okctalk.com%2Fimages%2Fpete%2Flink3.jpg&hash=1853a73d95d800b1a2ade07afbaf3842c739fb1f)

http://www.okctalk.com/showthread.php?t=42496&p=965118#post965118

New 8 year plan is out. Most notable projects are the I-44 reconstruction between May and I-235 and it appears they are going to begin tackling the I-40/I-44 interchange. The EB & WB I-40 bridges will be reconstructed over I-44 in 2024.

I am guessing they will widen I-44 as well?

They also appear to plan on widening I-35 between I-44 and I-40.

http://www.okladot.state.ok.us/cwp-8-year-plan/8_year_cwp_maps/8_year_cwp_division4_map.pdf

Is Lincoln Blvd actually State Highway 0, or is SH-0 just a generic designation for a state highway without a posted number.

Radio Rd. Widening and Interchange project was completed today.

https://www.facebook.com/OKDOT/videos/1848888095340198/

Press release: https://ok.gov/triton/modules/newsroom/newsroom_article.php?id=277&article_id=26646

Quote from: Plutonic Panda on November 03, 2016, 06:13:46 PM
Radio Rd. Widening and Interchange project was completed today.

https://www.facebook.com/OKDOT/videos/1848888095340198/

Press release: https://ok.gov/triton/modules/newsroom/newsroom_article.php?id=277&article_id=26646

Would have been nicer if they had photos instead of the cheesy amateur video on their FB page.

Completely agree. If anyone could take some photos that would be great. If not, I'll try to get some as I should be in metro later this month.

Quote from: Plutonic Panda on November 08, 2016, 01:32:49 AM
Completely agree. If anyone could take some photos that would be great. If not, I'll try to get some as I should be in metro later this month.

I have some of the construction I'll post later on.  I may be able to get out there on Sunday.

Douglas BLVD/ I-40 interchange meeting was today.

https://www.ok.gov/odot/Programs_and_Projects/Public_Meetings_and_Hearings/20170117.html

Three alternatives

QuoteAlternative 1 - Single Point Urban Interchange (SPUI) -- A Single Point Urban Interchange is a basic diamond interchange with a single signalized central intersection in the center of the bridge. The Douglas Boulevard traffic along with the I-40 ramp traffic will converge to a single point utilizing the single set of traffic signals. The SPUI interchange accommodates large traffic volumes efficiently with minimal right-of-way impacts. I-40 will be improved to a six-lane facility. Through the interchange, Douglas Boulevard will consist of six through lanes, dual left-turn lanes, and right-turn lanes where needed. Entrance and exit ramp lanes will also be constructed along I-40. Collector-distributor roads will be removed and will not be re-constructed. See attached graphic of SPUI.

Alternative 2 - Tight Urban Diamond Interchange (TUDI) with Ramp Flyover — A Tight Urban Diamond Interchange is an interchange that compresses a standard diamond interchange. This design includes all four interchange ramps, as well as the option of adding a future flyover ramp for northbound Douglas Boulevard traffic destined for westbound I-40. The compressed interchange with the ramp flyover accommodates large traffic volumes efficiently by removing a heavy left turn movement from the interchange and the resulting footprint requires minimal right-of-way. I-40 will be improved to a six-lanes facility. Through the interchange, Douglas Boulevard will consist of six through lanes, dual left-turn lanes, and right-turn lanes where needed. Upon construction of the northbound to westbound ramp flyover, the northbound to westbound left-turn lanes on Douglas will be removed. Entrance and exit ramp lanes will also be constructed along I-40. Collector-distributor roads will be removed and will not be re-constructed. See attached graphic of TUDI.

Alternative 3 - Cloverleaf Interchange — The existing cloverleaf will be completely reconstructed to accommodate widening I-40 to a six-lane facility. All ramps and both collector-distributor roads will be reconstructed. Through the interchange, Douglas Boulevard will consist of four through lanes, two lanes for loop ramp weaving, two additional lanes located in the median which can be used in the future for left turning traffic, and entrance and exit lanes where needed. Entrance and exit ramp lanes will also be constructed along I-40. See attached graphic of the new cloverleaf.

Personally I prefer option 2 because I'm a fan of flyovers and it takes less space than a cloverleaf and hate cloverleafs in general.

I prefer the SPUI alternative for that intersection.

The 2nd alternative with the "future" flyover would be decent for traffic leaving Tinker AFB and going toward downtown OKC. But there is no guarantee that future flyover would ever be built. All the other traffic movements would be stuck in a standard diamond interchange with a pair of traffic signals flanking both ends of the Douglas Street bridge over I-44. That's a bit much in terms of red light fatigue when there's another traffic signal at SE 29th Street immediately north of the interchange. Cloverleaf interchanges cut out the traffic signals, but at the expense of traffic weaving conflicts with cars entering and leaving I-40 in the same space.

Not even going to lie here, I like alternative 2 just because of the flyover and that it would be unique to OKC and that is about my only argument for it is for the sake of looking cool. I echo your concern about it not being guaranteed and knowing ODOT if they did decide to built it; it would take years to get it done.

Here are the alternatives:

Alternative 1:
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/RkcMYr1OY_fLqBsOr3DmrxU3VbNrRiznq-BhvxjiA32oEsiNvqWJ-U3LIfpKQp_tJ8TTOQksIIE7O1I=w1920-h925-rw)

Alternative 2:
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/T0wOe8bCSm1pyB0gvG9ekH6tNETkMqcgxQAEZyI7WhOS1taw8b6uwk7I2WK7AzeGQsWiA2QXhfVWXhY=w1920-h925-rw)

Alternative 3:
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/b7YZP3Y59TDSvMztZAZjk0Z3xmeIACT4lgYO41c3BWljRZIYhafuN2g-Bq3oBQSq_XrrwtY1fDAjpi4=w1920-h925-rw)

https://www.ok.gov/odot/Programs_and_Projects/Public_Meetings_and_Hearings/20170117.html

Guthrie Viaduct construction begins:

QuoteTraffic Advisories
Wednesday, January 18, 2017

SH-33 bridge reconstruction, widening in Guthrie begins Jan. 30

Motorists should be aware of construction on SH-33 in Guthrie starting Jan. 30 and use caution through the area. Eastbound and westbound SH-33 will remain open at Cottonwood Creek between 12th St. and Division St. during the initial reconstruction and widening of the bridge to four lanes.

The new bridge will be built parallel to the existing structure to limit disruption to traffic during the project with completion anticipated by late summer 2018. However, motorists may anticipate some lane closures and lane shifts later in 2017.

Manhattan Road and Bridge Co. of Tulsa was awarded the $17.2 million contract in October 2016.

https://ok.gov/triton/modules/newsroom/newsroom_article.php?id=277&article_id=28695

Quote from: Bobby5280 on January 18, 2017, 03:44:03 PM
Douglas Street

Careful with your Douglases...This is Douglas Boulevard. OKC also has a collector on the SW side that's named Douglas Avenue.

Quote from: Plutonic Panda on November 03, 2016, 06:13:46 PM
Radio Rd. Widening and Interchange project was completed today.

https://www.facebook.com/OKDOT/videos/1848888095340198/

Press release: https://ok.gov/triton/modules/newsroom/newsroom_article.php?id=277&article_id=26646

Exit 127, I presume?

Quote from: yakra on January 23, 2017, 12:44:56 AM

Quote from: Plutonic Panda on November 03, 2016, 06:13:46 PM
Radio Rd. Widening and Interchange project was completed today.

https://www.facebook.com/OKDOT/videos/1848888095340198/

Press release: https://ok.gov/triton/modules/newsroom/newsroom_article.php?id=277&article_id=26646

Exit 127, I presume?

Correct.

(https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/596/31013384904_5632349d3a_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/PfxGQQ)DSC09628 (https://flic.kr/p/PfxGQQ) by Eric Stuve (https://www.flickr.com/photos/okroads/), on Flickr

Good to see ODOT has made good use of its time developing yet another version of the Type A arrow.

I-35 from 12th St. in Moore to Main St. in Norman is being targeted for improvements. Options being considered by the looks of it are additional capacity(not sure if general purpose lanes or just auxiliary lanes), interchange improvements, etc.

https://www.ok.gov/odot/Programs_and_Projects/Public_Meetings_and_Hearings/20170427.html

I'd love to see a GP lane added and an HOV lane added each way. That would make I-35 10 lanes(8 general purpose and 2 HOV) and I'd like to see that all the way to downtown OKC.

I don't see ODOT doing that and I'm not even banking on them adding a general purpose lane. I'm guessing they will add an auxiliary lane in some areas.

One thing I would love to see is the Exit ramp for SH-77(Flood AVE.) along I-35SB moved to the right side of the freeway. I'd also like to see the same thing down for the Shields ramp. I can't stand left hand exits- it's one of my biggest peeves.

All of I-35 between Main Street and Indian Hills Road was just widened around 2010 or so. It remains free-flowing even during rush hour, so I don't really think there's much of a need to touch the mainline.

The section between N. 12th St. and S. 19th St. in Moore could use some geometry adjustments. There's a few ramps around that area that don't have much merging room. Another thing that might be discussed is an interchange at S. 34th Street–a bridge over the interstate to connect the road and relieve traffic on Indian Hills is already planned, and the Moore government is interested in having an interchange there.

The only thing I could see being discussed in the Norman segment of this is the possibility of converting the frontage roads to one-way. Currently, they are two-way, with one lane going in each direction. It works, sort of. The southbound frontage road's connection to Main St. is horrifically awkward, and that really needed to be addressed long ago. Also, with further development in the University Town Center development, there will likely be a need to extend the service road on the east side of the highway further north.

One way service road conversions would be great.

No one has mentioned the Lindsy St. and Hwy 9 in Norman. That is one of the most complicated interchange in Oklahoma City (besides the HORRID Dallas Junction, which really should be redone). :hmmm: Also, the outdated I 240 and I 35 is being reconstructed.

http://www.odot.org/newsmedia/press/2015/I35_I240_plan_map.jpg

The remodel of the OK-9 and Lindsey Street exits on I-35 have been mentioned in other threads. The title of this thread contains "small projects" in it. There's nothing small about that I-35 project in Norman. It will be interesting to see how it all comes together when completed (two SPUIs in a row at the Main and Lindsey exits and then a partial cloverleaf at OK-9).

I would be more excited about the I-35/I-240 interchange if it was being rebuilt as a four level stack with all direct connect flyover ramps.

I was in Oklahoma City yesterday. Maintenance crews had eastbound I-44 shut down to one lane by Penn Square Mall. I can't wait til ODOT finally gets the I-44/I-235/Broadway Extension interchange finished. It's an adventure going from eastbound I-44 through the small cloverleaf to northbound Broadway Extension, especially at night. There's very little room to merge safely.

Parts of the interchange at I-44 & Hefner Parkway look like hell. That really goes for the flyover ramp westbound I-44 uses to curve over the interchange. The concrete barriers on the flyover bridge are crumbling badly in enough you can see exposed rebar in a few places.

Yeah I probably should have put the I-35 project in its own thread because it likely will be a pretty large project, but I wanted to wait until the specifics came out.

QuoteParts of the interchange at I-44 & Hefner Parkway look like hell. That really goes for the flyover ramp westbound I-44 uses to curve over the interchange. The concrete barriers on the flyover bridge are crumbling badly in enough you can see exposed rebar in a few places.

Like this?

http://imgur.com/l2ZroN1

When was the last major repair on here?

The Hefner Parkway extension to NW 164th Street is finished. ODOT could easily extend the freeway up to Edmond Road (for now while not much is built alongside OK-74). Expanding it up to Danforth or Covell Road might consume at least a couple properties.

Quote from: MCRoads on April 15, 2017, 05:49:05 PM
No one has mentioned the Lindsy St. and Hwy 9 in Norman. That is one of the most complicated interchange in Oklahoma City (besides the HORRID Dallas Junction, which really should be redone). :hmmm: Also, the outdated I 240 and I 35 is being reconstructed.

http://www.odot.org/newsmedia/press/2015/I35_I240_plan_map.jpg

On a side note, I love the formating they have on the map. Looks like the 1950s plansheets, but made in 2015.

ODOT has selected the alternative for the Douglas BLVD./I-40 interchange.

They went with alt. 1 which is the SPUI. I don't have anything against SPUI's, but how is their argument that it is more efficient than a traditional diamond interchange with a flyover for the heavy traffic movement? I don't get that. I think they cheaper out. Oh well.

A SPUI has only one stoplight instead of two, so you're halving the number of stoplights the heavy movement is going through without an additional bridge. Plus, EB->SB movements don't have any signals at all.

Yeah but the flyover would have removed a stop for the most heavily trafficked movement which will have a stop with the SPUI. I can see the advantages of SPUIs, but I just think in this case a flyover would work much better for this scenario.

Quote from: Plutonic PandaThey went with alt. 1 which is the SPUI. I don't have anything against SPUI's, but how is their argument that it is more efficient than a traditional diamond interchange with a flyover for the heavy traffic movement? I don't get that. I think they cheaper out. Oh well.

The flyover ramp for NB Douglas to WB I-40 would be the only efficient movement in that interchange. Everything else would be very inefficient. Thru traffic driving NB & SB on Douglas would be mired in three traffic lights in short succession, two in the interchange itself and another very close at the Douglas and SE 29th intersection. To me that would be a downgrade from the existing cloverleaf interchange (which has no traffic lights), even with the serious weaving and merging issues present in the existing interchange. It makes me think of the clusterf*** of Gore Blvd crossing I-44 in Lawton. I really hate having to drive through there. The city is experimenting with timing of the 3 signals along Gore Blvd. Nothing is working. I wish ODOT could replace that interchange with a SPUI. But ODOT isn't going to spend $20+ million on an interchange in Lawton of all places.

Let's also not forget the Alternative 2 flyover ramp for NB Douglas to WB I-40 would not be funded and built in that diamond interchange construction.

The flyover ramp would have been put off to add later, possibly many years later. Look how long it is taking for the I-235/I-44 interchange to get built. With the current state of Oklahoma's finances I could see them building that diamond interchange and then simply cancelling the flyover ramp to save money.

I wouldn't be surprised if they did cancel that flyover if alt. 2 was chosen.

That's not really a SPUI, though. It functions much like one, but it's not one. And of course that has the safety issues of left entrance/exit ramps, which I would imagine are more severe than any inconvenience bicyclists or pedestrians may encounter from a traditional SPUI.

Also, I doubt there's many pedestrians along Douglas Boulevard. The west side of Douglas is Tinker Air Force Base, which of course by design does not present pedestrian-interactive frontage (unless you're the sort of person who likes walking alongside razor-wire fences, Jersey barriers, and/or caltrops). The very reason the NB→WB movement is so heavy at this interchange is traffic leaving from Tinker's Lancer Gate, which is the primary access to the east side of the base (where the massive Oklahoma City Air Logistics Complex (http://www.tinker.af.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/384764/oklahoma-city-air-logistics-complex/) is located). The east side of Douglas is vacant space dotted with businesses like self-storage units, aviation support firms, and muffler shops. I guess people might want to walk to Christie's Toy Box (don't Google it at work).

But since when have pedestrian facility advocates ever had to prove that improving ped access actually makes sense?

Quote from: FHWA Missouri field office
4.4 Are all the exits and entrances on the right side of the freeway mainline?

It is highly preferable to use right-hand entrance and exit ramps in the design of new interchanges. Entrance and exit ramps on the left-side of the freeway are contrary to driver expectation and studies indicate that crashes may be reduced as much as 25-70 percent with the use of right-off, right-on ramps as compared to left hand ramps. Traffic speeds are typically faster in the left-most lanes of the freeway, and therefore speed differentials between entering and exiting traffic and through traffic is usually greater with left-hand ramps.

If possible, existing left hand entrance/exit ramps should be replaced with right hand ramps when reconstructing an interchange. If this is impracticable because of unacceptable economic, environmental or social impacts then such reasons should be well documented and justified. Such justification should include a crash data analysis showing that the existing left hand ramp is not a substantial safety hazard.

Ok, you can have both a compact SPUI and no left entrances/exits with the amazing... OFFSET SPUI!!!

http://imgur.com/ttqzlBS

Also, for those saying it requires Moore right of way, there are some in LA that are SUPER compact, not to mension the intersection is by, like you said, a military base, were they could probably be convinced that giving 5 acres of land to the city is in there best interests.

Quote from: MCRoads on April 24, 2017, 03:02:03 PM
Ok, you can have both a compact SPUI and no left entrances/exits with the amazing... OFFSET SPUI!!!

http://imgur.com/ttqzlBS

Also, for those saying it requires Moore right of way, there are some in LA that are SUPER compact, not to mension the intersection is by, like you said, a military base, were they could probably be convinced that giving 5 acres of land to the city is in there best interests.

Thats way too forward thinking for ODOT. But it beautiful though.

Quote from: Plutonic Panda on April 24, 2017, 04:15:11 PM

Quote from: MCRoads on April 24, 2017, 03:02:03 PM
Ok, you can have both a compact SPUI and no left entrances/exits with the amazing... OFFSET SPUI!!!

http://imgur.com/ttqzlBS

Also, for those saying it requires Moore right of way, there are some in LA that are SUPER compact, not to mension the intersection is by, like you said, a military base, were they could probably be convinced that giving 5 acres of land to the city is in there best interests.

Thats way too forward thinking for ODOT. But it beautiful though.

Well, forward thinking is a ddi. And it's comming(in 4 years).
Also, do you know of an OSSPUI in LA? I couldn't find one... mabey they demolished it...

http://m.newsok.com/article/5546581

This article explains this better. I for one thought the study had already been underway but it hasn't been started and will last two years. Bummed. Thought maybe we'd see some proposals.

As for the commment in this article that the freeway can't be widened, I'm calling bullshit. If I-35 really can't be widened more than 6 lanes, enjoy the traffic flow while it lasts because if OKC becomes a boomtown like Austin and they aren't even able to widen it more than six lanes, well, you already see in Austin how that's worked out.

I think it's just a money issue which they should just come out and say if that's the case.

Quote from: MCRoads on April 24, 2017, 05:56:52 PM

Quote from: Plutonic Panda on April 24, 2017, 04:15:11 PM

Quote from: MCRoads on April 24, 2017, 03:02:03 PM
Ok, you can have both a compact SPUI and no left entrances/exits with the amazing... OFFSET SPUI!!!

http://imgur.com/ttqzlBS

Also, for those saying it requires Moore right of way, there are some in LA that are SUPER compact, not to mension the intersection is by, like you said, a military base, were they could probably be convinced that giving 5 acres of land to the city is in there best interests.

Thats way too forward thinking for ODOT. But it beautiful though.

Well, forward thinking is a ddi. And it's comming(in 4 years).
Also, do you know of an OSSPUI in LA? I couldn't find one... mabey they demolished it...

I'm referring to the way this particular SPUI was designed.

An OSSPUI? I'm not. In fact I can't even think of an SPUI in Los Angles or at least the basin. I think there are a few close by but I can't remember where.

Quote from: Plutonic Panda on April 25, 2017, 01:59:42 AM

Quote from: MCRoads on April 24, 2017, 05:56:52 PM

Quote from: Plutonic Panda on April 24, 2017, 04:15:11 PM

Quote from: MCRoads on April 24, 2017, 03:02:03 PM
Ok, you can have both a compact SPUI and no left entrances/exits with the amazing... OFFSET SPUI!!!

http://imgur.com/ttqzlBS

Also, for those saying it requires Moore right of way, there are some in LA that are SUPER compact, not to mension the intersection is by, like you said, a military base, were they could probably be convinced that giving 5 acres of land to the city is in there best interests.

Thats way too forward thinking for ODOT. But it beautiful though.

Well, forward thinking is a ddi. And it's comming(in 4 years).
Also, do you know of an OSSPUI in LA? I couldn't find one... mabey they demolished it...

I'm referring to the way this particular SPUI was designed.

An OSSPUI? I'm not. In fact I can't even think of an SPUI in Los Angles or at least the basin. I think there are a few close by but I can't remember where.

Sorry, OffSet SPUI (OSSPI).

And there are a few SPUIs in the LA aria, N Archebald Ave and I 10 has one, there are a couple more heading east.

Quote from: Plutonic PandaAs for the commment in this article that the freeway can't be widened, I'm calling bullshit. If I-35 really can't be widened more than 6 lanes, enjoy the traffic flow while it lasts because if OKC becomes a boomtown like Austin and they aren't even able to widen it more than six lanes, well, you already see in Austin how that's worked out.

Adding a 4th lane in both directions of I-35 thru Moore is justifiable. But doing so will be a really tight squeeze in some places. Frontage roads would probably have to be shifted a bit, especially for exit and entrance ramps to be designed up to current Interstate standards. Certain bridges would have to be replaced to make room for new lanes, but some of those bridges really need to be replaced anyway. The Indian Hills Road bridge is pretty lousy and its existing support columns stand in the way of any new lane additions. According to the article that bridge is supposed to be replaced in 2022. The same situation exists for the SW 4th Street and NW 12th Street bridges over I-35.

It's also worth mentioning I-35 in OKC from I-240 up to I-40 is mostly just 3 lanes in each direction. At least most of the bridges over I-35 in Oklahoma City's South side provide room to add an additional lane.

I agree and even if weren't justifiable or ODOT doesn't think so, they still have room to do it. It would be a tight fit in some areas buts doable. I think for them, cost is the main factor. They just need to say so instead of spreading misinformation.

At the same time, I think OkDOT would be justified in saying that addressing the ramp geometry is more important at this time than widening.

I'm not going to argue that a widening is needed because I can see arguments against it. I can envision the money that would be spent widening this section of I-35 would be much more useful going to projects like Belle Isle Bridge replacement, I-44/I-40 interchange replacement, or expediting the other interchange projects currently going on.

It just upsets me to see OKDOT tell people there isn't enough room to widen the freeway which is bullshit and reeks of small town mentality. It's nothing major just annoying I guess.

I mentioned upthread that the portion of I-35 between Indian Hills Road and Main St was widened around 2010 or so, so it's been 7 years since then. I don't think the interstate has experienced enough traffic growth in 7 years to require widening to 4 lanes.

While it would be wrong to say there is no room in general to widen the freeway, there are a few places where the ROW is narrow enough that it would be difficult (like between Main and Robinson). Also, I would imagine that along much of the corridor it would require some eminent domain to secure more ROW, even if actual structures would not need to be demolished.

THIS IS A POST ABOUT SOME MICRO PROJECTS,

does anyone Know for sure why they have yellow bollards on the center line at the Indian Hills Rd. RR crossing? I'm guessing it is to stop people being idiots, and trying to beat the train.

Also, what are they doing at the Highland East crosswalk on 4th street?

Also Also, ODOT, why have you proposed FIVE or SIX interchange reworks, when we cant even afford paper for our schools?

Side note, paper is an EXPORT of Oklahoma, which at first seems weird, then it's sad, because we cannot afford it.

Quote from: MCRoadsAlso Also, ODOT, why have you proposed FIVE or SIX interchange reworks, when we cant even afford paper for our schools?

Gutting public school funding is part of the GOP Super-Majority's war on what they see as "socialism." At least that's the rationale being fed to sheeple gullible enough to believe it. The real game is shifting tax dollars for education into private/charter schools where there are less regulations on curriculum, quality standards and tuition costs. It will be a real money-making bonanza for the good ole boy network. And the system will work as a great filter to separate the have's from the have nots. Some kid's "voucher" will be good enough to pay the tuition at a shady start-up charter school, but would only work as a 20% off coupon for a private school worth a damn.

One possible consequence of Oklahoma's public education system of being de-funded: women of child-bearing age who can leave the state for opportunities elsewhere are going to do so. Oklahoma will turn into a terrible place for any middle class person to raise a family. Public schools are vital for middle class and lower income families. This state's population could transform into an old fart sausage fest if we keep heading in the same direction for too much longer.

Quote from: MCRoadsSide note, paper is an EXPORT of Oklahoma, which at first seems weird, then it's sad, because we cannot afford it.

We have a pretty large Republic Paperboard factory west of Lawton out by the Goodyear plant and Bar-S.

The I-40/Frisco Road interchange in Yukon is slated to be replaced. I'm assuming a DDI will be the preferred choice and the the road itself will be expanded to four lanes over I-40. It is scheduled for June 13th, 6:00pm, at the Yukon City Chambers.

Here is the public notice link: https://www.ok.gov/odot/Programs_and_Projects/Public_Meetings_and_Hearings/20170613.html

Note that this is actually a new interchange that is going in, in concert with the replacement of the existing Frisco Rd overpass.

Good note. Frisco Rd. currently has no I-40 access and there are two major developments here that are likely to either wait until this is built or will benefit majorly from this project when it is completed.

There was a major sports complex and a large commercial development currently proposed in the immediate vicinity.

Is this thread dead?

The service roads along I-35 in Edmond are being targeted for redesign including conversion to one way(which I support) and/or possible reconfigurations to the current setup in various areas. IMO, this is a much needed change as a lot of the service road setups in Oklahoma are horrible.

My preference would be conversion to one way and widened to 3 lanes each way with Texas-turnarounds at every light. I would like to see the service roads extended to Covell(honestly Waterloo would be optimal) and pass under 2nd St. I would also like to see the ramps reconfigured to a tight urban diamond interchange with the Second St. bridge rebuilt and straightened as an SPUI. I also want to see new bridges built at the half mile in between 2nd St. and 33rd. Most importantly, I think a new bridge is warranted between Fox Lake Plaza development and Intergris Hospital.

As I was posting I just realized they have already had the presentation and are considering increasing capacity on I-35 which is great. I will post the links and read through the presentation and post highlights on another post.

Presentation: http://www.okladot.state.ok.us/meetings/a2017/171026/Presentation.pdf

OkDOT meeting page: https://www.ok.gov/odot/Programs_and_Projects/Public_Meetings_and_Hearings/20171026_I-35.html

It doesn't look like they have a preferred alternative but from the looks of it they appear to be leaning towards the one way service roads. They had a lot of redundant images on the presentation. The study area also goes to Waterloo Rd. which I didn't realize. Maybe they are considering extensions. This could easily be a 100m+ dollar project if they really went all out even without my wishes of the 2nd. St. bridge rebuild. I didn't see any schematics detailed alignments of the alternatives which I would have liked to see.

There really isn't much to post. Didn't see any other plans of widening I-35 other than the plans to improve capacity which is sort of vague. Don't know if they mean increase capacity or improve it through redesigns by moving traffic faster. Maybe the presentation they posted was buggy or something.

I forgot to post this one as well for Frisco Rd. Preferred alternative:

(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/W-ZBkWwuEsW6cEFBFjwOpdcvyzv3q9v1CswJ6K2QH7UNzjlcsYXRF2oTEXI1LkBl-IPieMtXQ8fCgRY=w1920-h962-rw)

OkDOT study page: https://www.ok.gov/odot/Programs_and_Projects/Public_Meetings_and_Hearings/20170613.html

Well I do believe at some point a pedestrian/bicycle path is going over I-35 somewhere. I'm not sure how far along these plans are. I will wait until OkDOT has selected an alternative–which I thought for some reason they would do–but I agree with you here, if the final plans don't include dedicated bike lanes(preferably it's own protected path) and sidewalks that will be disappointing.

Well I hate bicycle lanes with a passion. I ride my bicycle a lot and from my experience, they are very dangerous. The proper way would be to create a dedicated bicycle path along every road where each path is on one side of the street and both ways intersect themselves. The ROW is so large here they could have multiuse paths on each side completely speedster from the roadway.

Either way, email OkDOT and let your voice be heard. I did but I forgot to include anything about bicyclists or sidewalks. I don't see anything being done here for another 5 Years, so im sure they're open to comments.

this is awesome, OKC is ACTUALLY getting the streetcar! the tracks are in, now all they have to do is make the stations!

MAPS3 is actually doing what it promised!

Quote from: Plutonic Panda on October 28, 2017, 06:42:25 PM
Well I hate bicycle lanes with a passion. I ride my bicycle a lot and from my experience, they are very dangerous. The proper way would be to create a dedicated bicycle path along every road where each path is on one side of the street and both ways intersect themselves. The ROW is so large here they could have multiuse paths on each side completely speedster from the roadway.

Are you referring to something like this (https://goo.gl/maps/aeEtqBV17ZN2) or this (https://goo.gl/maps/u73izN6KSKN2)?
This has been done on most of 300 South and 200 West in Salt Lake City (and the second link above is the intersection of those two streets). The problem with having the curbs separating the bike lanes from the road was that they violated the fire code, since fire trucks could not pull up right next to the building which could be on fire.

Quote from: roadguy2 on November 01, 2017, 05:16:52 PM

Quote from: Plutonic Panda on October 28, 2017, 06:42:25 PM
Well I hate bicycle lanes with a passion. I ride my bicycle a lot and from my experience, they are very dangerous. The proper way would be to create a dedicated bicycle path along every road where each path is on one side of the street and both ways intersect themselves. The ROW is so large here they could have multiuse paths on each side completely speedster from the roadway.

Are you referring to something like this (https://goo.gl/maps/aeEtqBV17ZN2) or this (https://goo.gl/maps/u73izN6KSKN2)?
This has been done on most of 300 South and 200 West in Salt Lake City (and the second link above is the intersection of those two streets). The problem with having the curbs separating the bike lanes from the road was that they violated the fire code, since fire trucks could not pull up right next to the building which could be on fire.

I would prefer the latter but I want the bicycle traffic to be two way.

Fifth and Sixth St. exit and entrance ramps at I-235 are apparently being considered for a redo. Not sure what kinds of changes are coming but from the looks of it I don't know that anything that doesn't come with a rather large price tag could do much. I'm scratching my head trying think what could be done here. I'll probably catch hell for this and this a rare exception I make but I think the ramps should removed entirely and a cap be over the freeway even though it will make traffic worse. That isn't happening though and I'm thinking of maybe creating a new on ramp to I-235 north bound from Harrison like this set-up on I-5 in Anaheim but perhaps more towards the center of the bridge and braid the ramps obviously under or over the 10th st. exit(https://www.google.com/maps/@33.8365282,-117.9413,431m/data=!3m1!1e3).

That could at least solve the I-235 northbound access ramp issue and could eliminate that cloverleaf ramp. For the I-235 south bound access ramp, they could try and braid it with Lincoln access ramp but I don't know if there is enough room. They really fucked up by not directly connecting Lincoln BLVD. when they redid I-40 by giving it a direct connection at Reno and having ramps connecting it to all directions in the I-235/I-35/I-40 mix master. It sure would have been expensive but worth it as Lincoln BLVD. is an important road. IMO, that mix master needs about a billion dollar overhaul so drivers on I-35 have their own dedicated bridge without having to touch I-40 and new flyovers added.

I have thought about possibly an elevated roundabout for restricted access for either the I-235 south bound exit ramp into Deep Deuce or possibly grade separating Harrison and even compromising standards but I don't think there's enough room to even do that. Hopefully they don't go for a roundabout which is what I'm suspecting they might do. I will be very interested to see what is proposed for this location.

This article highlights some developments coming to the immediate area but it shows work is being eyed for this area:

QuoteFar more complex challenges are posed by the Fifth and Sixth Street entrances and exits from I-235. The dips under the railway viaduct always made these connections less than ideal, especially for trucks that repeatedly get stuck under the relatively low spans.

The choices faced by travelers going to and from I-235 are, as Russell points out, "a nightmare."  Those exiting I-235 at Sixth have a choice of two different right turns, a left turn, going straight, but don't dare make that third right turn onto Fifth that is still one-way to Broadway.

When I-235 was built three decades ago, these otherwise fatal flaws were offset by the fact most of the properties in the area consisted of empty lots and abandoned buildings. Traffic flowed out onto what was then a pair of one-way streets that, as I mentioned, were the result of engineers needing an east-west bypass in the days before the opening of I-40.

Add into this scenario that we are set to have a new major I-235 access point to downtown from the Oklahoma City Boulevard that is free of these complications and is designed to accommodate the mix of vehicular, pedestrian and even streetcar traffic that is our new reality.

Developers throughout the area agree, it's time to do something with the Fifth and Sixth Street connections to I-235. Public Works Director Eric Wenger and Planning Director Aubrey Hammontree have visited in recent months about the area's overall development, though Wenger admits the highway connections themselves have yet to rise up in that conversation because they haven't heard of the developers' concerns.

Now it will.

Likewise, Brian Taylor, division engineer for north central division of the Oklahoma Department of Transportation, says he also is interested in starting a discussion about whether changes are needed along I-235 at Fifth and Sixth Streets. Usually, he said, such discussions are initiated by the city.

He notes major work is ahead for the I-35 and I-40 junction and the department is widening the NE 23 exit from northbound I-235 to address similar inadequacies of past designs.

I don't have the answers on what changes are needed. But change is coming, and it's painfully obvious the I-235 egress that was awkward at best 30 years ago is now about to become a potentially deadly hazard in years to come.

- http://newsok.com/future-overload-development-may-require-traffic-changes-at-sixth-street/article/5590279

It seems to me some new braiding of the ramps is in order but I'm not an engineer so I don't know if there is enough to do the things I suggested. As far as pedestrian safety goes, that one is a very easy fix but probably won't see the light of day even if the funds were there. Add Las Vegas style pedestrian bridge crossings or essentially a pedestrian and bike only elevated roundabout. My guess would be around 20-30 million dollars to do that.

Texas-style U turn ramps and one way frontage roads are great. There are some U ramps near me and I use them nearly every time I go somewhere. Whoever invented them should be sainted.

Quote from: bugo on April 10, 2018, 08:24:11 PM
Texas-style U turn ramps and one way frontage roads are great. There are some U ramps near me and I use them nearly every time I go somewhere. Whoever invented them should be sainted.

Completely agree and imo, unless due to space constraints or other usual circumstances, I always irk at two way frontage roads in urban areas. OKC has several instances of this in Edmond, I-35 in NE OKC, I-35 though Moore are all two way frontage roads. Edmond is converting to one way whenever they can find the funds which it seems like they are prioritizing it.

Quote from: Plutonic Panda on April 10, 2018, 10:49:55 PMbicycles are outdated and the way of the past. Cars are the future

Lol no. They're different modes serving different needs.

Quote from: TXtoNJ on April 11, 2018, 10:07:54 AM

Quote from: Plutonic Panda on April 10, 2018, 10:49:55 PMbicycles are outdated and the way of the past. Cars are the future

Lol no. They're different modes serving different needs.

Today, yes. Not in the past when they were invented.

Quote from: Plutonic PandaI am suggesting bikes get their own road network the parallel roads and even have their own signals. Most would be synchronized with traffic signals. What I want will never happen though and I generally don't support other bike infrastructure due to the fact it is stupid to allow bicycles on roads with cars that can 100MPH. Even when the speed limit is 30MPH bikes rarely get that fast. Though I am a bit of a hypocrite because I bike a lot on roads in LA, bicycles are outdated and the way of the past. Cars are the future and bicycles should stick to dedicated trails or widened sidewalks. They just need to stay out of vehicle traffic. It isn't safe and slows down motorist which shouldn't be tolerated. I always do my best to stay far to the right as possible and ride on the sidewalk when I don't see anyone. Other than that I am more and more finding myself using my car to transport my bike to dedicated trails unless I cruise the LA river to DTLA.

Bicyclists may legally have a right to the road, but what would that law be worth to a bicyclist after he gets splattered by a compulsive phone-using motorist? Once the bicyclist is killed laws won't bring him back to life. Other people might get paid in any resulting legal action (and that's a big "IF"). The dead bicyclist is just going to be dead. If the bicyclist survives the accident but is seriously injured, permanently disabled, etc what little money he "wins" (after the attorneys take most of it) won't go far at offsetting his greatly diminished quality of life.

We have a few streets here in Lawton marked as "shared" vehicle/bicycle roads. I think they're mostly useless. I personally only ride my trail bike on paths and trails where there are no cars present. I very strongly dislike taking any chances at all riding my bike on any of the streets here. That's because I know how brain dead stupid and distracted way too many motorists can be. Some motorists are even openly hostile to people on bicycles. If one runs over me I'm sure the distracted driver would probably be genuinely sorry and sobbing out tearful apologies to the judge. But, again, if you're a bicyclist killed by a distracted driver their apologies won't make any difference to you after you're dead.

The reality is way way too many people are driving down the road with their heads embedded deep in their @$$. That's the fact and you have to manage/reduce your risks around that situation. To me that means never giving the jerks a chance to run over me in the first place.

I wish Lawton had a dedicated bike path network, but this town just doesn't have the tax base to support such a thing. I don't think we have the "culture" present to support such a thing either.

Regarding making bike path networks that are separate, but parallel to existing roads (even with their own signals, etc) I don't see how such a thing would be possible without building these bike paths on a bunch of grade separated bridges and under passes. That would be crazy expensive (especially if we're building such a thing here in the price gouging United States).

Quote from: Plutonic Panda on April 11, 2018, 03:55:51 PM

Quote from: TXtoNJ on April 11, 2018, 10:07:54 AM

Quote from: Plutonic Panda on April 10, 2018, 10:49:55 PMbicycles are outdated and the way of the past. Cars are the future

Lol no. They're different modes serving different needs.

Today, yes. Not in the past when they were invented.

Modern bikes were invented in the 1880s, same as the automobile. Trains and streetcars were the commuting modes in those days, not bikes.

Quote from: TXtoNJ on April 11, 2018, 04:27:24 PM

Quote from: Plutonic Panda on April 11, 2018, 03:55:51 PM

Quote from: TXtoNJ on April 11, 2018, 10:07:54 AM

Quote from: Plutonic Panda on April 10, 2018, 10:49:55 PMbicycles are outdated and the way of the past. Cars are the future

Lol no. They're different modes serving different needs.

Today, yes. Not in the past when they were invented.

Modern bikes were invented in the 1880s, same as the automobile. Trains and streetcars were the commuting modes in those days, not bikes.

Cars weren't mass produced or affordable until the 1930s or 1940s so not the same thing.

I dunno, I think the extra ten feet or whatever of ROW that bike lanes take up is money well spent. Hoping we get some expansion of the current network here in Norman (the city seems interested in expanding its bike facilities, so it's a good possibility).

Quote from: Scott5114 on April 11, 2018, 09:51:46 PM
I dunno, I think the extra ten feet or whatever of ROW that bike lanes take up is money well spent. Hoping we get some expansion of the current network here in Norman (the city seems interested in expanding its bike facilities, so it's a good possibility).

That is a lot of ROW taken up. That could be a car lane and instead goes to bike lanes that are almost always empty. If they want to to just slap some paint on each side of a road that doesn't have any lane reduction, then I'll support that. You sure won't see me using them much though.

Quote from: Plutonic Panda on April 11, 2018, 10:20:07 PM

Quote from: Scott5114 on April 11, 2018, 09:51:46 PM
I dunno, I think the extra ten feet or whatever of ROW that bike lanes take up is money well spent. Hoping we get some expansion of the current network here in Norman (the city seems interested in expanding its bike facilities, so it's a good possibility).

That is a lot of ROW taken up. That could be a car lane and instead goes to bike lanes that are almost always empty. If they want to to just slap some paint on each side of a road that doesn't have any lane reduction, then I'll support that. You sure won't see me using them much though.

"Road diets" have not yet made their way to Oklahoma, so any bike lanes that are installed are as part of a widening or elimination of on-street parking. Most existing bike lanes in Norman are on streets that don't warrant any more than two lanes to begin with. It would be hard to see what, say, Oakhurst Avenue needs a third lane for. The new West Lindsey Street bike lanes, the first installation of bike lanes in Norman, were installed as part of a project to widen the street from three to four lanes with median.

In many cases, obtaining extra ROW would not be terribly hard since most properties in Norman are built with a useless strip of grass between the sidewalk and the curb. This strip could be turned into a bike lane, putting the sidewalk flush with the curb. The more major of the two streets bounding my property already has bike lanes, so I don't foresee it happening, but I would jump at the chance to sell these strips to the city if they offered. They are a pain to mow, and are narrow enough and so close to the street that I can't really do anything useful with them.

Quote from: Plutonic Panda on April 11, 2018, 10:20:07 PM

Quote from: Scott5114 on April 11, 2018, 09:51:46 PM
I dunno, I think the extra ten feet or whatever of ROW that bike lanes take up is money well spent. Hoping we get some expansion of the current network here in Norman (the city seems interested in expanding its bike facilities, so it's a good possibility).

That is a lot of ROW taken up. That could be a car lane and instead goes to bike lanes that are almost always empty. If they want to to just slap some paint on each side of a road that doesn't have any lane reduction, then I'll support that. You sure won't see me using them much though.

I have no problem with bike lanes when they’re just an extra few feet of ROW that can be added to the side of the road, especially when it was just going to be a 2-lane road anyway. My problem is when they decide to put in a bike lane but don’t change the initial ROW of what would have been a multi-lane road, since that requires the removal of a car lane and decreases capacity.

Also, I think bicycles should stay off the main arterials as much as possible, and ride on the side streets instead (unless there is no other alternative). When there are bicycles on the major arterials, drivers constantly worry about avoiding the bicyclist, and bicyclists worry about getting hit by a car. Riding on the side streets (and putting in bike lanes on these streets) would create a safer environment overall for both driver and bicyclist.

Quote from: roadguy2 on April 11, 2018, 11:15:47 PM
Also, I think bicycles should stay off the main arterials as much as possible, and ride on the side streets instead (unless there is no other alternative). When there are bicycles on the major arterials, drivers constantly worry about avoiding the bicyclist, and bicyclists worry about getting hit by a car. Riding on the side streets (and putting in bike lanes on these streets) would create a safer environment overall for both driver and bicyclist.

This is a good concept to follow when the city follows something reasonably close to a grid. An excellent example is Springfield, Missouri, which has a lot of minor arterials that parallel the more major ones on either side. Running a bike lane down Glenstone would be silly, because running one down Fremont would serve the same function while keeping the bikes away from traffic.

Unfortunately, some cities, like Norman, have all their arterials on a mile grid, with the assumption you will follow the arterial until you reach the square mile in question, and then turn off and find your destination somewhere in the interior of the square. As a result, there is often no real way to traverse between square miles without following the arterials on their edges. There are very few minor arterials that penetrate the centers of the squares, only minor collectors that rarely line up from square to square.

Quote from: roadguy2 on April 11, 2018, 11:59:33 PM
I'm curious how removing a lane can increase capacity.

Depending on how you measure capacity, replacing a seldom-used two-way left turn lane with a bus or bike lane could theoretically increase capacity, although you run the risk of realizing a false "gain" by dirty accounting tricks if you're not careful.

Quote from: roadguy2 on April 11, 2018, 11:15:47 PM

Quote from: Plutonic Panda on April 11, 2018, 10:20:07 PM

Quote from: Scott5114 on April 11, 2018, 09:51:46 PM
I dunno, I think the extra ten feet or whatever of ROW that bike lanes take up is money well spent. Hoping we get some expansion of the current network here in Norman (the city seems interested in expanding its bike facilities, so it's a good possibility).

That is a lot of ROW taken up. That could be a car lane and instead goes to bike lanes that are almost always empty. If they want to to just slap some paint on each side of a road that doesn't have any lane reduction, then I'll support that. You sure won't see me using them much though.

I have no problem with bike lanes when they're just an extra few feet of ROW that can be added to the side of the road, especially when it was just going to be a 2-lane road anyway. My problem is when they decide to put in a bike lane but don't change the initial ROW of what would have been a multi-lane road, since that requires the removal of a car lane and decreases capacity.

Also, I think bicycles should stay off the main arterials as much as possible, and ride on the side streets instead (unless there is no other alternative). When there are bicycles on the major arterials, drivers constantly worry about avoiding the bicyclist, and bicyclists worry about getting hit by a car. Riding on the side streets (and putting in bike lanes on these streets) would create a safer environment overall for both driver and bicyclist.

Yeah this pretty much sums up how I feel as well.

Yeah we don't need to be counting bike lanes as actual lanes. That is absurd. If a street has two car lanes and two bike lanes, it is a two lane street. Most people drive, so calling it a four lane street is misleading.

So far in the press release things are looking good for OkDOTs statewide 8yr plan with new projects being added.

One of those is I-35 expanded through the Kilpatrick Turnpike with a NB and SB lane added which will be very welcome. It is a bottleneck and these new lanes will help immensely. Don't know when it will start, but it's not too big of a project so maybe it could be sooner than later.

PS, I still wish that whole interchange would be reconfigured to remove those ridiculous curves and awful left exits and ramp entries. Unfortunately it would be hard to justify that as the interchange still has quite a bit of life left.

https://ok.gov/triton/modules/newsroom/newsroom_article.php?id=277&article_id=44777

Are messed up bridges on Kilpatrick in West OKC being rebuilt and widened? A poster from another forum site noticed a sign that said construction is beginning soon and dug up this link: https://pikepass.com/pdf/jkt-2344_final%20bid%20plans_2018-08-28%20with%20disclaimer_281_20180829083037.pdf

It will be a bridge rehabilitation and widening for $55M. Just curious if anyone knows as this is a pretty exciting prospect. A widening would be great but just getting these damn bridges fixed would be a godsend!

I wonder if the project has anything to do with the South extension of the Kilpatrick over to Airport Road. The current South end of the turnpike, just past I-40 has to be re-done to curve around the housing complex that was built directly in the path.

Quote from: Bobby5280 on October 23, 2018, 11:08:36 PM
I wonder if the project has anything to do with the South extension of the Kilpatrick over to Airport Road. The current South end of the turnpike, just past I-40 has to be re-done to curve around the housing complex that was built directly in the path.

Whelp, I can't message them anymore, on Facebook at least, to ask because I was blocked after asking them about the project.

Quote from: Bobby5280 on October 23, 2018, 11:08:36 PM
I wonder if the project has anything to do with the South extension of the Kilpatrick over to Airport Road. The current South end of the turnpike, just past I-40 has to be re-done to curve around the housing complex that was built directly in the path.

No, this is the area where the bridges are hump-backed north of OK66

Quote from: Plutonic Panda on October 24, 2018, 02:54:07 PM

Quote from: Bobby5280 on October 23, 2018, 11:08:36 PM
I wonder if the project has anything to do with the South extension of the Kilpatrick over to Airport Road. The current South end of the turnpike, just past I-40 has to be re-done to curve around the housing complex that was built directly in the path.

Whelp, I can't message them anymore, on Facebook at least, to ask because I was blocked after asking them about the project.

What did you say...?

Quote from: Scott5114 on October 25, 2018, 02:24:23 AM

Quote from: Plutonic Panda on October 24, 2018, 02:54:07 PM

Quote from: Bobby5280 on October 23, 2018, 11:08:36 PM
I wonder if the project has anything to do with the South extension of the Kilpatrick over to Airport Road. The current South end of the turnpike, just past I-40 has to be re-done to curve around the housing complex that was built directly in the path.

Whelp, I can't message them anymore, on Facebook at least, to ask because I was blocked after asking them about the project.

What did you say...?

I just asked if the work listed was in fact a project to replace the bridges and add lanes. They didn't respond so I tried sending a question mark to get their attention because I saw the little picture icon that showed "˜read.' It said this person wasn't available right now and sure enough I went to check their page to see if they blocked me and they did. I used no profanity nor was I rude.

Every time I have tried to get info about projects I've had to message them a couple or more times to actually get a response. From my experience, they are a bad organization and not very transparent. I guess I just got annoying? Whatever.

Quote from: Plutonic Panda on October 25, 2018, 04:51:43 AM

Quote from: Scott5114 on October 25, 2018, 02:24:23 AM

Quote from: Plutonic Panda on October 24, 2018, 02:54:07 PM

Quote from: Bobby5280 on October 23, 2018, 11:08:36 PM
I wonder if the project has anything to do with the South extension of the Kilpatrick over to Airport Road. The current South end of the turnpike, just past I-40 has to be re-done to curve around the housing complex that was built directly in the path.

Whelp, I can't message them anymore, on Facebook at least, to ask because I was blocked after asking them about the project.

What did you say...?

I just asked if the work listed was in fact a project to replace the bridges and add lanes. They didn't respond so I tried sending a question mark to get their attention because I saw the little picture icon that showed "˜read.' It said this person wasn't available right now and sure enough I went to check their page to see if they blocked me and they did. I used no profanity nor was I rude.

Every time I have tried to get info about projects I've had to message them a couple or more times to actually get a response. From my experience, they are a bad organization and not very transparent. I guess I just got annoying? Whatever.

I sent them an email when a truck took out the first reassurance shield on SB SH-74 (S) in 2006.

Guess which highway still doesn't start with a reassurance shield?

Quote from: Scott5114 on October 25, 2018, 05:10:07 AM

Quote from: Plutonic Panda on October 25, 2018, 04:51:43 AM

Quote from: Scott5114 on October 25, 2018, 02:24:23 AM

Quote from: Plutonic Panda on October 24, 2018, 02:54:07 PM

Quote from: Bobby5280 on October 23, 2018, 11:08:36 PM
I wonder if the project has anything to do with the South extension of the Kilpatrick over to Airport Road. The current South end of the turnpike, just past I-40 has to be re-done to curve around the housing complex that was built directly in the path.

Whelp, I can't message them anymore, on Facebook at least, to ask because I was blocked after asking them about the project.

What did you say...?

I just asked if the work listed was in fact a project to replace the bridges and add lanes. They didn't respond so I tried sending a question mark to get their attention because I saw the little picture icon that showed "˜read.' It said this person wasn't available right now and sure enough I went to check their page to see if they blocked me and they did. I used no profanity nor was I rude.

Every time I have tried to get info about projects I've had to message them a couple or more times to actually get a response. From my experience, they are a bad organization and not very transparent. I guess I just got annoying? Whatever.

I sent them an email when a truck took out the first reassurance shield on SB SH-74 (S) in 2006.

Guess which highway still doesn't start with a reassurance shield?

This would imply that it's me and not the agency, but OkDOT has blocked me as well. No profanity(I mean I've included some profanity once or twice but it wasn't directed at them) or rudeness, just questions and ideas from public comment periods or the occasional inquiry, then one day I'm blocked from all platforms and no response from my emails.

Again, one could gather that perhaps it's me and not them, but consider the fact I also regularly communicate with NDOT, UDOT, CalTrans, TxDOT, NMDOT, The Toll Roads, Metro, DART, Embark, City of Edmond, City of OKC, and many other agencies; I have no issue. A couple of them take some time in their response(particularly Metro whenever I inquire about the High Desert Corridor which is interesting), but over the years having communicated with them in the same manner as I would with OkDOT, and I have no problem. It's almost like the State of Oklahoma just doesn't like criticism, which I am not short of.

Oh well, I'm out of points with OkDOT and OTA, and I won't pursue it for now. It's really bizarre with OkDOT because I used to have a good relationship with them getting quick responses. What can you do?

Compared to the OTA, I've always received quick and engaging responses from NTTA and The Toll Roads. Usually I receive a wealth of information even though most is usually provided on their websites, I don't get a snarky/downright rude response like I am annoying for asking questions or proposing improvements. OTA seems to have a transparency issue and it'd be nice to see some reforms in the agency.

Waterloo and SH-74 will receive various improvements including a traffic signal.

QuoteThe Oklahoma Department of Transportation and Oklahoma and Logan counties are working together to make SH-74 and Waterloo Road safer for motorists by moving up a traffic signal several years sooner than previously expected.

However, it will take an estimated 18 months before the new signal is completed, making it more important than ever that motorists obey existing traffic signs and use caution in the area. This includes being vigilant about the existing traffic patterns, which includes:

Northbound and southbound SH-74 traffic does not stop at the intersection; and
Eastbound and westbound Waterloo Rd. traffic must stop and yield to oncoming highway traffic.
ODOT is expediting this estimated up to $500,000 project in its Eight-Year Construction Work Plan thanks to some recent projects coming in under the engineering estimate. Additionally, Oklahoma County District 3 Commissioner Ray Vaughn and Logan County District 1 Commissioner Marven Goodman have renewed their commitment to share operation and maintenance of the proposed four-way traffic signal at the intersection, which will result in a four-way stop for motorists by 2020.

- https://www.ok.gov/triton/modules/newsroom/newsroom_article.php?id=277&article_id=46557

Pardon the question since I'm not from the area, but from Google Maps, there's already the poles all in place. Why is it going to take until 2020 to swap them over to actual signals? Seems like it would be pretty straight forward to get them converted?

Quote from: Plutonic Panda on October 29, 2018, 05:32:38 PM
Waterloo and SH-74 will receive various improvements including a traffic signal.

QuoteThe Oklahoma Department of Transportation and Oklahoma and Logan counties are working together to make SH-74 and Waterloo Road safer for motorists by moving up a traffic signal several years sooner than previously expected.

However, it will take an estimated 18 months before the new signal is completed, making it more important than ever that motorists obey existing traffic signs and use caution in the area. This includes being vigilant about the existing traffic patterns, which includes:

Northbound and southbound SH-74 traffic does not stop at the intersection; and
Eastbound and westbound Waterloo Rd. traffic must stop and yield to oncoming highway traffic.
ODOT is expediting this estimated up to $500,000 project in its Eight-Year Construction Work Plan thanks to some recent projects coming in under the engineering estimate. Additionally, Oklahoma County District 3 Commissioner Ray Vaughn and Logan County District 1 Commissioner Marven Goodman have renewed their commitment to share operation and maintenance of the proposed four-way traffic signal at the intersection, which will result in a four-way stop for motorists by 2020.

- https://www.ok.gov/triton/modules/newsroom/newsroom_article.php?id=277&article_id=46557

OkDOT posted a new overhead on SB I-35 just upstream of the Main Street exit in Norman. "I-35/US-77 Left 3 Lanes".

This is not, nor has it ever been, US-77...........

Quote from: Scott5114 on November 01, 2018, 08:03:29 AM
OkDOT posted a new overhead on SB I-35 just upstream of the Main Street exit in Norman. "I-35/US-77 Left 3 Lanes".

This is not, nor has it ever been, US-77...........

Someone done messed up, because 77 of course has been off I-35 for roughly 4 miles by that point. That sign should have been posted in south OKC instead, say, upstream of I-240.

After numerous delays, the contract to resurface Northwest Expressway from just east of the junction with the Kilpatrick east to the Hefner Parkway was on the final April 2019 Bid Opening list. About time.

Long overdue. But boy is that construction project going to be painful. Traffic on NW Expressway out there can get pretty ridiculous.

I'm surprised they haven't widened NW express to six lanes through the Kilpatrick interchange. I cloverleaf or ParClove interchange should be considered for Kilpatrick interchange as well.

I-35 will be expanded to six lanes between I-40 and I-44. I prefer alt 4 though I'm not crazy about the two frontage roads those can easily be converted. I like the expanded footprint which allows for a future expansion when needed.

All of the materials can be found here: https://www.ok.gov/odot/Programs_and_Projects/Public_Meetings_and_Hearings/20200218.html

That's an overdue upgrade. It's a shame they can't make it 4 lanes in each direction the entire way from I-40 up to the I-44 interchange. That cramped stretch from NE 15th to NE 23rd is the bottleneck.

Removing the frontage roads would create additional space for more freeway main lanes (and shoulders). But it would come at the cost of creating a lot of long, dead-end streets in the Edwards Community neighborhood.

I am really disappointed in the alternatives. Alt 4 is the worst. It has ramps exiting to frontage roads with poor sight lines just as you have on I35 north of I44.  Traffic can and will back up onto the main lanes.  They also blew the chance to use the TX method where you exit for the next street before the on ramp from the previous street. Alt 4 also appears to remove the rail line south from the Railway Museum. DO they really need that much ROW?  That's a LOT of house removal.

^^^^ haven't you been on record here complaining OkDOT doesn't plan ahead enough!? This ROW gives ample room for widening in the future. The two way frontage roads can easily be converted in the future.

Highly unlikely Alt. 4 is chosen unfortunately. What alternative would you have proposed? Six lanes seems good enough for now. Frontage roads will extended and reworked. Alt 2 has them one way. What do you want?

I-40 through Del City will see some work with several bridges being completely reconstructed.

https://okcfox.com/news/local/odot-to-spend-82-million-fixing-crumbling-i-40-bridges

Note that the Del City work does not include the Sunnylane Rd bridge, which is also patched up. Hopefully that can be awarded soon to be included in the same time span.

Quote from: okc1 on March 04, 2020, 10:23:30 AM
Note that the Del City work does not include the Sunnylane Rd bridge, which is also patched up. Hopefully that can be awarded soon to be included in the same time span.

Isn't that one on the two lane section of I-40 they plan on widening to 3?

Quote from: Plutonic Panda on March 04, 2020, 11:01:13 AM
Isn't that one on the two lane section of I-40 they plan on widening to 3?

No, it's immediately west of the 15th st bridge. On the 2-lane section, bridges over Anderson Rd will need replacement, as well as several overpasses.

Quote from: okc1 on March 04, 2020, 01:32:30 PM

Quote from: Plutonic Panda on March 04, 2020, 11:01:13 AM
Isn't that one on the two lane section of I-40 they plan on widening to 3?

No, it's immediately west of the 15th st bridge. On the 2-lane section, bridges over Anderson Rd will need replacement, as well as several overpasses.

Yeah my mistake.

It looks like this stretch of I-40 is going be under construction for the better part of this entire decade. This project will likely take a year or two.

Then Sunnylane and a slew of other projects begin in 2025/26/27 to widen the freeway and redo the bridges. The interchange at I-35 is even due for some capacity upgrades on the 8yr plan. I-35 will be reconstructed from I-40 to I-44 along with its interchange at I-44 being completely reconstructed and reconfigured. Then I-40 will be widened East until the entire corridor is six lanes to Shawnee. So the I-40 expansion currently wrapping up essentially is a kick off to a long series of sporadic construction projects in this area so if you live here good luck.

Many projects are still planned on I-40 west which, I'm sure you know, OkDOT just reconstructed and widened. Still more projects on the way there too with Frisco road interchange to be redone this year.

OkDOT seriously needs a bigger budget as it is incredibly frustrating that it drags all of these projects out over a decade or more. It just means never ending construction on each road.

8 laning I-40 is even on ACOGs long term plan so that could happen in the 2030s or 40s.

PS, the section of I-40 closest to Tinker in between David Stanley is going require either acquisition of land(which is likely off the table) or a very complex widening which I think no such setup exists in Oklahoma. It will likely be partially buried similar to how the service roads are along US-75 in Dallas(central expressway). It will be expensive and isn't even mentioned on the 8yr plan at all but it will be widened as there is no choice or else it becomes a bad bottleneck in the future. Another option is to bury it using a cut and cover and cap it with a park. I personally am excited for these possibilities as it will be a unique stretch of freeway but I don't expect anything this decade.

Here is the 8year plan to see exact dates and costs:

https://www.odot.org/cwp-8-year-plan/cwp_ffy2020-ffy2027/8_year_cwp_divisionokc_map.pdf

The details for next phase of the I-40 widening in the east OKC Metro have been released. Several bridges will be replaced/permanently removed, roundabout interchange added, and a small service road will be constructed near the Shawnee casino.

Link to a 3D visualization of the proposed project: https://clients.freese.com/ODOTI40PottawatomieCo//3D/ODOT%20Final%203D%20Visualization%20I40%207_23_2020.mp4

https://www.ok.gov/triton/modules/newsroom/newsroom_article.php?id=277&article_id=60881

Quote from: Plutonic Panda on February 20, 2020, 06:17:10 PM
I-35 will be expanded to six lanes between I-40 and I-44. I prefer alt 4 though I'm not crazy about the two frontage roads those can easily be converted. I like the expanded footprint which allows for a future expansion when needed.

All of the materials can be found here: https://www.ok.gov/odot/Programs_and_Projects/Public_Meetings_and_Hearings/20200218.html

Not surprisingly, alternative 4 was removed from consideration and alt. 2 and 3 will move forward.

https://www.odot.org/meetings/a2020/200218/update.pdf

Quote from: Plutonic Panda on January 18, 2017, 02:48:21 AM
Douglas BLVD/ I-40 interchange meeting was today.

https://www.ok.gov/odot/Programs_and_Projects/Public_Meetings_and_Hearings/20170117.html

Three alternatives

QuoteAlternative 1 - Single Point Urban Interchange (SPUI) -- A Single Point Urban Interchange is a basic diamond interchange with a single signalized central intersection in the center of the bridge. The Douglas Boulevard traffic along with the I-40 ramp traffic will converge to a single point utilizing the single set of traffic signals. The SPUI interchange accommodates large traffic volumes efficiently with minimal right-of-way impacts. I-40 will be improved to a six-lane facility. Through the interchange, Douglas Boulevard will consist of six through lanes, dual left-turn lanes, and right-turn lanes where needed. Entrance and exit ramp lanes will also be constructed along I-40. Collector-distributor roads will be removed and will not be re-constructed. See attached graphic of SPUI.

Alternative 2 - Tight Urban Diamond Interchange (TUDI) with Ramp Flyover — A Tight Urban Diamond Interchange is an interchange that compresses a standard diamond interchange. This design includes all four interchange ramps, as well as the option of adding a future flyover ramp for northbound Douglas Boulevard traffic destined for westbound I-40. The compressed interchange with the ramp flyover accommodates large traffic volumes efficiently by removing a heavy left turn movement from the interchange and the resulting footprint requires minimal right-of-way. I-40 will be improved to a six-lanes facility. Through the interchange, Douglas Boulevard will consist of six through lanes, dual left-turn lanes, and right-turn lanes where needed. Upon construction of the northbound to westbound ramp flyover, the northbound to westbound left-turn lanes on Douglas will be removed. Entrance and exit ramp lanes will also be constructed along I-40. Collector-distributor roads will be removed and will not be re-constructed. See attached graphic of TUDI.

Alternative 3 - Cloverleaf Interchange — The existing cloverleaf will be completely reconstructed to accommodate widening I-40 to a six-lane facility. All ramps and both collector-distributor roads will be reconstructed. Through the interchange, Douglas Boulevard will consist of four through lanes, two lanes for loop ramp weaving, two additional lanes located in the median which can be used in the future for left turning traffic, and entrance and exit lanes where needed. Entrance and exit ramp lanes will also be constructed along I-40. See attached graphic of the new cloverleaf.

Personally I prefer option 2 because I'm a fan of flyovers and it takes less space than a cloverleaf and hate cloverleafs in general.

Alternative 1 has been selected as the preferred alternative.

https://www.ok.gov/odot/Programs_and_Projects/Public_Meetings_and_Hearings/20170117.html

(https://www.odot.org/meetings/a2017/170117/graphic072020.pdf)

Good news for the 281/66 bridge in Canadian county.

https://oklahoman.com/article/5671383/state-receives-22-million-grant-to-reconstruct-historic-bridge-on-route-66?fbclid=IwAR1M9gf9_AIkrFe4IqG66PnO20EC92Pga0OIptFggKj-eyUwJBbdk5D2S-I

I was browsing around the new OkDOT website and found this schematic of the proposed SH-9/I-35 south interchange:

(https://i.imgur.com/MBziLlP.jpg)

https://oklahoma.gov/odot/progress-and-performance/federal-grant-awards/build-grants/mcclain-county-i-35-and-sh-9w-interchange.html

Another section of US-77 is proposed to be widened through Lexington

All alternatives include widening the road to a minimum of 4 lanes.

Quote- Alternative 1 — realigns SH-39 through Veterans Park to create a new signalized intersection at US-77
- Alternative 2 — realigns SH-39 through Veterans Park to create a roundabout intersection at US-77
- Alternative 3 — realigns SH-39 north along 3rd Street to create a new signalized intersection with US-77

https://us77lexington.transportationplanroom.com/

(https://i.imgur.com/shzSrV6.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/hEQ5CFx.jpg)

^^^^^

If you look at the alternatives, most of them greatly restrict access to the widened highway, especially Alternative 3.  Wonder what the citizens of Lexington think of that.

Yeah it appears OkDOTs goal is to move traffic through this town rather than interact with it too much. I am not familiar with this area at all other than when I drive through here in I-35. Is there really that much traffic on this road?

Quote from: Plutonic Panda on November 16, 2020, 06:17:56 PM
Yeah it appears OkDOTs goal is to move traffic through this town rather than interact with it too much. I am not familiar with this area at all other than when I drive through here in I-35. Is there really that much traffic on this road?

I haven't looked at the AADT but I know numerous intersections are unsafe as angles restrict the driver's vision to the point there are many bad accidents. That's a good enough reason IMO to make the changes.

Quote from: Plutonic Panda on November 16, 2020, 04:51:17 PM
I was browsing around the new OkDOT website and found this schematic of the proposed SH-9/I-35 south interchange:

(https://i.imgur.com/MBziLlP.jpg)

https://oklahoma.gov/odot/progress-and-performance/federal-grant-awards/build-grants/mcclain-county-i-35-and-sh-9w-interchange.html

$18 million for a new ramp into the Riverwind parking lot (the Chickasaws coughed up $1.6 million). Fun stuff.

Also, the application document talks of "supporting economic vitatlity" and "I-35 at SH-6 Interchange Improvements". Sadly, there's no discussion of whether the new consturction bypass will elimitante the truck trarffic.

Interesting. The ramp changes will theoretically make it easier to convert WB OK9 to a freeway in the future.

That is the one bright spot, as it eliminates two curb cuts (the exit from Riverwind's north valet, which has always been pretty dodgy, and one of the entrances/exits to Love's). If SH-9 were converted to freeway, you would have to figure out how to tie Adkins Hill Road into it, as well as run a ramp from I-35 NB to the new roundabout (I suppose you could realign Adkins Hill to tie into the new ramp they're adding).

There is still one curb cut that needs to be removed between there and the light at Bankers, and that's the entrance to Riverwind north valet. I suppose ODOT could just buy out access and Riverwind could use that money to connect the valet to the Bankers lot. Or they could just permanently close north valet; they often only have south valet open anyway. Then put in interchanges at Bankers and 24th St/Santa Fe, and run Texas-style frontage roads between the two, and now you're cooking...

One improvement that should be considered for the area is a pedestrian bridge between Riverwind and Love's, as there is a sort of strange amount of foot traffic between the two. I say strange because there's not a whole lot at Love's that you can't get at Riverwind that would make sense for someone on foot to be seeking out, but I guess there are people without rides that lose all their money at Riverwind and then chill out at Love's afterward. For whatever reason, there's been a decent number of accidents and near-misses, and it'd probably be in everyone's best interest for that bridge to be there (especially if the Chickasaws and Love's would be willing to contribute toward it).

Having worked for the Chickasaw Nation Division of Commerce for 10 years (including 4 of those years at Riverwind), I can safely say it's still as much corporate welfare as if you ran a ramp straight into a Walmart parking lot. The only difference is what the profits are spent on.

Quote from: rte66man on November 17, 2020, 09:03:45 AM
Interesting. The ramp changes will theoretically make it easier to convert WB OK9 to a freeway in the future.

That would be awesome, if they could make that a freeway, to link up to the HE Bailey spur, and eventually OK9 to the east to link up to the Kickapoo turnpike.

The proposed improvements to the I-35/OK-9 interchange by Riverwind Casino look like a decent start. The relocation of the traffic signal with OK-9 and S Harvey Street/NW 12th Avenue would provide more room to build high speed, freeway-to-freeway ramps between I-35 and OK-9 to the West of I-35.

The problem for OK-9 remains that ROW is somewhat cramped going farther West of I-35 between the casino and other businesses on the North and South sides of the current 4-lane undivided highway. It would be a really super tight squeeze in a few spots to build a grade-level 4-lane freeway flanked by frontage roads. The current drainage ditches would have to be reconfigured, maybe even tunneled underneath the new road.

ODOT (or OTA) could take a different approach similar to the TX-146 project in Kemah, TX. Build an elevated 4-lane freeway (or toll road) structure above a reconfigured OK-9 surface boulevard. That concept would probably cost more money, but it would also ensure high speed connections between OK-9 and I-35 and do more to filter surface street access to the two super highways.

I really would like to see an all-limited-access connection between the H.E. Bailey Turnpike and I-35 South of Norman. A limited access connection from the H.E. Bailey Turnpike thru or around Norman and to the Kickapoo Turnpike would be even better.

Quote from: Bobby5280 on November 18, 2020, 08:23:41 PM
The proposed improvements to the I-35/OK-9 interchange by Riverwind Casino look like a decent start. The relocation of the traffic signal with OK-9 and S Harvey Street/NW 12th Avenue would provide more room to build high speed, freeway-to-freeway ramps between I-35 and OK-9 to the West of I-35.

The problem for OK-9 remains that ROW is somewhat cramped going farther West of I-35 between the casino and other businesses on the North and South sides of the current 4-lane undivided highway. It would be a really super tight squeeze in a few spots to build a grade-level 4-lane freeway flanked by frontage roads. The current drainage ditches would have to be reconfigured, maybe even tunneled underneath the new road.

According to the lot lines on the McClain County Assessor's website (https://mapview-mcclain.com/), the narrowest point of the ROW that is both undivided and developed is the part between Mason's Peanuts and the Chickasaw Employee Health Clinic, which is just about exactly 300 feet wide. The ROW tapers down to its narrowest point on the east side of 24th Street, but the land on either side is vacant, so it shouldn't be too hard to acquire some more in that area, and would be a good place to put an interchange with 24th Street. The ROW widens back out to about 325 feet on the west side of the intersection.

QuoteI really would like to see an all-limited-access connection between the H.E. Bailey Turnpike and I-35 South of Norman. A limited access connection from the H.E. Bailey Turnpike thru or around Norman and to the Kickapoo Turnpike would be even better.

(https://i.imgur.com/bUMxy5P.jpg)

Quote from: Scott5114The ROW widens back out to about 325 feet on the west side of the intersection.

I think the tightest choke point along OK-9 is the part where First United Bank is on the North side of the road and McDonald's, Oklahoma Optical and the Shell station is on the South side. It's probably not all that geometrically reliable, but when I use the measuring tool in Google Earth Pro going from the fence line of a North property (like the bank) to the fence line of the South property (McDonald's) it comes out to about 280 feet in width. That's still technically enough space to build a 4-lane Interstate highway flanked by frontage roads. The only difficulty is accommodating extra room for slip ramps, particularly if they're braided ramps. And all the drainage ditch issues are included within that ROW. But I suppose if you build box culverts and other features in the right way below the highway that can be turned into a non-issue.

If I was one of the people in charge at Riverwind Casino I would be lobbying like holy hell to get OK-9 turned into a freeway between the end of the H.E. Bailey Turnpike Extension stub to US-62 and I-35. I would think the Riverwind Casino location would be only that much more valuable being at the junction of two super highways rather than just being at a regular exit off I-35. The same goes for the other businesses along OK-9 in that location. The freaking location would be even more valuable if the Kickapoo Turnpike was extended somehow down to I-35 in that area. If that happened I think commercial development would boom in that location.

There's a rumor(unsubstantiated) of a Buc-ees going in at this location.

Quote from: Bobby5280 on November 19, 2020, 12:19:54 AM

Quote from: Scott5114The ROW widens back out to about 325 feet on the west side of the intersection.

I think the tightest choke point along OK-9 is the part where First United Bank is on the North side of the road and McDonald's, Oklahoma Optical and the Shell station is on the South side. It's probably not all that geometrically reliable, but when I use the measuring tool in Google Earth Pro going from the fence line of a North property (like the bank) to the fence line of the South property (McDonald's) it comes out to about 280 feet in width.

The fence lines are not accurate to the property lines. The point you describe was where I got the 300' width. Based on your measurements the fencelines may be offset from the property lines by as much as 20'. Follow the link in my comment to the county assessor's website, which has a measurement tool you can use against the official property line data.

Quote from: Plutonic Panda on November 19, 2020, 12:40:43 AM
There's a rumor(unsubstantiated) of a Buc-ees going in at this location.

Nothing in McClain County is owned by Buc-ees, according to the county assessor.

I really would like to see at least one Buc-ee's location built in the OKC area. I think the area around the OK-9/I-35 interchange is too cramped and access to I-35 too limited for a huge Buc-cee's store. The new one off I-10 in Southern Alabama has created a traffic nightmare there since there is only one way in and out. There are a few spots farther North along I-35 between Norman and Moore that would be more acceptable for a Buc-ee's location. I-40 on the Western side of OKC has some possibilities, although they would be better if they had continuous frontage roads.

It doesn't look like Buc-ee's has any plans to expand into Oklahoma anytime soon. For now the convenience super-store chain is concentrating its expansion plans on the Deep South. They just opened a new Buc-ee's location in Warner Robbins, GA. They have plans to build at least 2 or 3 more locations in Northern Georgia. They just announced plans to build a location just North of Florence, SC on I-95 at the SC-327 exit. A location near Daytona, FL is starting construction; a second Florida location is planned near St Augustine. Buc-ee's is also looking at the booming "Triangle" region in North Carolina.

Still, OKC and Tulsa are legit possible locations. Amarillo would be a great spot for a Buc-ee's store. There's all kinds of space where they could build one just West of the I-40/US-287 junction.

From the one time I've been to a Buc-ee's, I feel like it'd be a great place to stop on the occasional roadtrip, but be way too big of a pain in the ass to be your daily fill-up-and-buy-a-Coke station.

Quote from: Scott5114 on November 21, 2020, 03:12:32 AM
From the one time I've been to a Buc-ee's, I feel like it'd be a great place to stop on the occasional roadtrip, but be way too big of a pain in the ass to be your daily fill-up-and-buy-a-Coke station.

The smaller ones where I live surely are! There's one near me that has about 40-50 pumps which feels about the right size to me.

The first Buc-ee's locations in the Houston area were pretty ordinary/normal in size. Then they just started getting bigger and bigger.

Quote from: Scott5114From the one time I've been to a Buc-ee's, I feel like it'd be a great place to stop on the occasional roadtrip, but be way too big of a pain in the ass to be your daily fill-up-and-buy-a-Coke station.

Yeah, the giant-sized Buc-ee's stores do not function the same way as a neighborhood 7-Eleven where you just drive down the street to pick up a six-pack of Bud Light or something. Driving onto a Buc-ee's property has the same feel as going to a large Walmart or even a shopping mall. I think the executives for Buc-ee's understand this and choose their locations carefully so they do work as ideal stops on a road trip. The typical giant Buc-ee's store tends to be near major highway junctions on the outskirts of a major city or at a key road trip point, like the one off I-10 in Alabama. That's the I-10 exit to go down to Gulf Shores.

It's probably a good thing I don't have an opportunity to visit a Buc-ee's store on a frequent basis. I would be gaining a lot of weight eating a bunch of their beef jerky!

I got a good laugh visiting the Buc-ee's web site recently.  On the home page they had a big announcement about the Warner Robbins, GA store being open. They used the tag line: "Potty Like a Rock Star!" They do have very clean (and big) restrooms.

Quote from: Bobby5280 on November 21, 2020, 06:07:10 PM
The first Buc-ee's locations in the Houston area were pretty ordinary/normal in size. Then they just started getting bigger and bigger.

Quote from: Scott5114From the one time I've been to a Buc-ee's, I feel like it'd be a great place to stop on the occasional roadtrip, but be way too big of a pain in the ass to be your daily fill-up-and-buy-a-Coke station.

Yeah, the giant-sized Buc-ee's stores do not function the same way as a neighborhood 7-Eleven where you just drive down the street to pick up a six-pack of Bud Light or something. Driving onto a Buc-ee's property has the same feel as going to a large Walmart or even a shopping mall. I think the executives for Buc-ee's understand this and choose their locations carefully so they do work as ideal stops on a road trip. The typical giant Buc-ee's store tends to be near major highway junctions on the outskirts of a major city or at a key road trip point, like the one off I-10 in Alabama. That's the I-10 exit to go down to Gulf Shores.

It's probably a good thing I don't have an opportunity to visit a Buc-ee's store on a frequent basis. I would be gaining a lot of weight eating a bunch of their beef jerky!

I got a good laugh visiting the Buc-ee's web site recently.  On the home page they had a big announcement about the Warner Robbins, GA store being open. They used the tag line: "Potty Like a Rock Star!" They do have very clean (and big) restrooms.

I agree Bobby. Locally (OKC area), when filling up, I rarely go inside a convenience store, just fill up at the pump, and go. Different story when traveling though. Buc-ees' is a great stop for restroom, fuel and beef jerky LOL.

Quote from: Plutonic Panda on November 16, 2020, 04:51:17 PM
I was browsing around the new OkDOT website and found this schematic of the proposed SH-9/I-35 south interchange:

(https://i.imgur.com/MBziLlP.jpg)

https://oklahoma.gov/odot/progress-and-performance/federal-grant-awards/build-grants/mcclain-county-i-35-and-sh-9w-interchange.html

This project is now at stake as governor Stitt has formally opposed it. Many critics are not happy with tax payer monies being used to fund this project even though the tribes are forking over 10 million towards it. I imagine other improvements are to be had as well though I'm not sure how much those cost as they are likely just reconstruction of existing pavement, possible new bridge, and acceleration lanes but I am not sure what all is proposed in that regard.

I will say I do like the proposed flyover and roundabout but I am not happy with the interchange design overall. Highway 9 needs to become a full freeway loop connecting to I-44 and eventually somehow tying in with SH-152 to connect at the SW Kilpatrick extension and airport freeway. While we're at it remove the fucking tolls on the existing roads!! I really despise the direction Oklahoma is moving to tolling all new freeways.

But no matter how far any of that is into the future it should all start with this interchange being a fully directional interchange. Here are some articles on the current situation:

https://www.google.com/amp/s/amp.oklahoman.com/amp/4925446001

https://kfor.com/news/local/proposed-i-35-hwy-9-flyover-ramp-causes-rifts-between-odot-governor-and-chickasaw-nation/amp/

On another side note and honestly a fantasy wish here, SH-9 should be extended over I-35 and a new Canadian River crossing be made NE of Goldsby to directly tie into SH-9 East. At the very least preserve right of way for it in the future when funds can be found to fully upgraded SH-9 East to a freeway through Norman.

Quote from: Plutonic Panda on May 05, 2021, 03:10:26 PM
On another side note and honestly a fantasy wish here, SH-9 should be extended over I-35 and a new Canadian River crossing be made NE of Goldsby to directly tie into SH-9 East. At the very least preserve right of way for it in the future when funds can be found to fully upgraded SH-9 East to a freeway through Norman.

My fantasy wish was actually the opposite, to extend the SH-9 expressway west of I-35 on the Cleveland County shore, then cross in such a place that it could cut SW and tie into existing SH-9 west around Santa Fe, thus bypassing Riverwind entirely. But Norman is building a riverside park in that area, so that's likely not a realistic idea anymore.

The old SH-9/SH-74 crossing, before I-35, connected Jesse Drive in Goldsby with 24th Avenue SW in Norman. Some of the piers are still there–Alps has photos (https://www.alpsroads.net/roads/ok/ok_74/). It would be nice to have a bridge here again simply as a backup to the I-35 bridge in case it gets blocked by an incident–the next nearest bridges are miles away in either direction.

I like the Tolls.

Quote from: Plutonic Panda on May 05, 2021, 03:07:55 PM
I will say I do like the proposed flyover and roundabout but I am not happy with the interchange design overall. Highway 9 needs to become a full freeway loop connecting to I-44 and eventually somehow tying in with SH-152 to connect at the SW Kilpatrick extension and airport freeway.

Looks like there had been a plan for a somewhat similar corridor that made it to the EIS stage in the mid 1970's:  https://hdl.handle.net/2027/ien.35556030801120 (https://hdl.handle.net/2027/ien.35556030801120)

Quote from: Revive 755 on June 06, 2021, 11:21:33 PM

Quote from: Plutonic Panda on May 05, 2021, 03:07:55 PM
I will say I do like the proposed flyover and roundabout but I am not happy with the interchange design overall. Highway 9 needs to become a full freeway loop connecting to I-44 and eventually somehow tying in with SH-152 to connect at the SW Kilpatrick extension and airport freeway.

Looks like there had been a plan for a somewhat similar corridor that made it to the EIS stage in the mid 1970's:  https://hdl.handle.net/2027/ien.35556030801120 (https://hdl.handle.net/2027/ien.35556030801120)

Wow it looks like I-44 had not even been completed past I-40 at that point. It looks they can still do most of that if they secure ROW at least quick enough.

Quote from: Plutonic Panda on June 07, 2021, 04:10:32 AM

Quote from: Revive 755 on June 06, 2021, 11:21:33 PM

Quote from: Plutonic Panda on May 05, 2021, 03:07:55 PM
I will say I do like the proposed flyover and roundabout but I am not happy with the interchange design overall. Highway 9 needs to become a full freeway loop connecting to I-44 and eventually somehow tying in with SH-152 to connect at the SW Kilpatrick extension and airport freeway.

Looks like there had been a plan for a somewhat similar corridor that made it to the EIS stage in the mid 1970's:  https://hdl.handle.net/2027/ien.35556030801120 (https://hdl.handle.net/2027/ien.35556030801120)

Wow it looks like I-44 had not even been completed past I-40 at that point. It looks they can still do most of that if they secure ROW at least quick enough.

For 10+ years, what was US62 (didn't become I-44 until the 80's) took a hard 100 degree turn just north of SW 74th.  That part was built to act as a connector to the H.E. Bailey turnpike when it was opened in 1964. For a couple of years years, US62 narrowed to 2 lanes from 74th south to the South Canadian River. The other lanes were graded, but I'm assuming ODOT didn't have the funds to pave immediately. What was I-440 wasn't completed north until the mid 70's.

Quote from: Plutonic Panda on August 05, 2020, 02:24:48 PM

Quote from: Plutonic Panda on January 18, 2017, 02:48:21 AM
Douglas BLVD/ I-40 interchange meeting was today.

https://www.ok.gov/odot/Programs_and_Projects/Public_Meetings_and_Hearings/20170117.html

Three alternatives

QuoteAlternative 1 - Single Point Urban Interchange (SPUI) -- A Single Point Urban Interchange is a basic diamond interchange with a single signalized central intersection in the center of the bridge. The Douglas Boulevard traffic along with the I-40 ramp traffic will converge to a single point utilizing the single set of traffic signals. The SPUI interchange accommodates large traffic volumes efficiently with minimal right-of-way impacts. I-40 will be improved to a six-lane facility. Through the interchange, Douglas Boulevard will consist of six through lanes, dual left-turn lanes, and right-turn lanes where needed. Entrance and exit ramp lanes will also be constructed along I-40. Collector-distributor roads will be removed and will not be re-constructed. See attached graphic of SPUI.

Alternative 2 - Tight Urban Diamond Interchange (TUDI) with Ramp Flyover — A Tight Urban Diamond Interchange is an interchange that compresses a standard diamond interchange. This design includes all four interchange ramps, as well as the option of adding a future flyover ramp for northbound Douglas Boulevard traffic destined for westbound I-40. The compressed interchange with the ramp flyover accommodates large traffic volumes efficiently by removing a heavy left turn movement from the interchange and the resulting footprint requires minimal right-of-way. I-40 will be improved to a six-lanes facility. Through the interchange, Douglas Boulevard will consist of six through lanes, dual left-turn lanes, and right-turn lanes where needed. Upon construction of the northbound to westbound ramp flyover, the northbound to westbound left-turn lanes on Douglas will be removed. Entrance and exit ramp lanes will also be constructed along I-40. Collector-distributor roads will be removed and will not be re-constructed. See attached graphic of TUDI.

Alternative 3 - Cloverleaf Interchange — The existing cloverleaf will be completely reconstructed to accommodate widening I-40 to a six-lane facility. All ramps and both collector-distributor roads will be reconstructed. Through the interchange, Douglas Boulevard will consist of four through lanes, two lanes for loop ramp weaving, two additional lanes located in the median which can be used in the future for left turning traffic, and entrance and exit lanes where needed. Entrance and exit ramp lanes will also be constructed along I-40. See attached graphic of the new cloverleaf.

Personally I prefer option 2 because I'm a fan of flyovers and it takes less space than a cloverleaf and hate cloverleafs in general.

Alternative 1 has been selected as the preferred alternative.

https://www.ok.gov/odot/Programs_and_Projects/Public_Meetings_and_Hearings/20170117.html

(https://www.odot.org/meetings/a2017/170117/graphic072020.pdf)

This project has received 50 million in federal funding.

QuoteI-40 Highway Reconstruction and Widening

The $50 million grant to the Oklahoma Department of Transportation will be used for a lane addition and interchange improvement project on I-40 and the Douglas Boulevard Interchange. These upgrades will improve safety and efficiency for more than 50,000 vehicles per day, of which 15 percent are commercial trucks. These crucial grant funds will help advance this critical project's timetable by five years.

On March 15, 2021, Cole joined a delegation letter, led by Inhofe, to the U.S. Department of Transportation in support of this funding for the I-40 highway reconstruction and widening project.

https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/oklahoma-awarded-100-million-in-competitive-highway-grants

Meanwhile it looks like Tom Cole forgot the Lawton-Fort Sill area even exists. For years now there has been a project on the books to add a pedestrian bridge to one of the two Gore Blvd bridges over I-44 in Lawton. Yeah, no, that can appears to be kicked down the road to whoever knows when. Maybe if enough people jay-walking I-44 get splattered by traffic it might inspire a change.

On the way to work this morning I saw one older lady walking along the median of I-44 going North of Gore Blvd. She was holding up one of her arms as if hailing a cab and appeared to be talking to herself. South of the Gore Blvd crossing I saw a fellow walking along the EB Gore on ramp to WB (SB really) I-44.

I feel bad for Lawton. In regards to Oklahoma, it's not a city that is insignificant either for the state. It should get more than it gets. The fucking traffic signals in some parts of the city look like they are from the 70s. Lawton needs a freeway loop around it.

My hope is this, medicine park is a really cool low key area that hasn't really been discovered yet. I suspect as OKC, WF, and Tulsa grow the demand to get out of these big cities to small towns for some R&R will only grow. MP has potential to become a pretty popular town one day if they make the right moves. Maybe this will draw more interest to Lawton.

The army could decide to further invest in Fort Sill. Perhaps a private company takes it upon itself to build a large manufacturing plant. I wish Stitt would promote SW OK more.

Quote from: Bobby5280 on July 07, 2021, 12:32:24 AM
Meanwhile it looks like Tom Cole forgot the Lawton-Fort Sill area even exists.

I hate to break it to you, but he’s definitely not the only one. And it’s a shame considering the economic and strategic value of Fort Sill.

Tom Cole forgets every urban area exists.

Quote from: Plutonic PandaI feel bad for Lawton. In regards to Oklahoma, it's not a city that is insignificant either for the state. It should get more than it gets. The fucking traffic signals in some parts of the city look like they are from the 70s. Lawton needs a freeway loop around it.

There is a lot of things that look dated in Lawton. Regarding freeways, Rogers Lane (which runs between Fort Sill and Lawton) badly needs to be upgraded. It's a fake freeway that's little more than a glorified street. I don't even know how it can carry the US-62 designation since it doesn't even have any shoulders. On top of that the portion of I-44 that runs through Fort Sill needs to be improved. The stretch running past Key Gate looks like a throwback to the 1960's.

Lawton does need a Southern bypass, mainly to connect the big industrial district to I-44. There is an enormous Goodyear tire plant out there along with several other industrial facilities. 82nd Street is one outlet used to go South out of town to avoid Lawton traffic and connect with I-44 via OK-36. 82nd Street is just beat to hell. The road's deteriorating condition is wreaking havoc on trucks. Goodyear has complained about it. The only thing that appears to be happening is just one patch job on the street after another.

Quote from: Plutonic PandaMy hope is this, medicine park is a really cool low key area that hasn't really been discovered yet. I suspect as OKC, WF, and Tulsa grow the demand to get out of these big cities to small towns for some R&R will only grow. MP has potential to become a pretty popular town one day if they make the right moves. Maybe this will draw more interest to Lawton.

Lawton has a lot of potential for tourism and other industries. But much of it is going unrealized. There is a lot of activity in Medicine Park though. It does appear more people from OKC, Tulsa and elsewhere have "discovered" it. They're visiting in greater numbers. There is a lot of selling and buying of properties out there lately. The downside is little is being done to improve infrastructure out there. The narrow streets can handle only so much traffic. I could have went out there this past weekend for 4th of July festivities, but I chose to keep my sanity instead.

Quote from: Bobby5280 on July 07, 2021, 12:06:16 PM

Quote from: Plutonic PandaI feel bad for Lawton. In regards to Oklahoma, it's not a city that is insignificant either for the state. It should get more than it gets. The fucking traffic signals in some parts of the city look like they are from the 70s. Lawton needs a freeway loop around it.

There are a lot of things that look dated in Lawton. Regarding freeways, Rogers Lane (which runs between Fort Sill and Lawton) badly needs to be upgraded. It's a fake freeway that's little more than a glorified street. I don't even know how it can carry the US-62 designation since it doesn't even have any shoulders. On top of that the portion of I-44 that runs through Fort Sill needs to be improved. The stretch running past Key Gate looks like a throwback to the 1960's.

Lawton does need a Southern bypass, mainly to connect the big industrial district to I-44. There is an enormous Goodyear tire plant out there along with several other industrial facilities. 82nd Street is one outlet used to go South out of town to avoid Lawton traffic and connect with I-44 via OK-36. 82nd Street is just beat to hell. The road's deteriorating condition is wreaking havoc on trucks. Goodyear has complained about it. The only thing that appears to be happening is just one patch job on the street after another.

Knew you would bring that up :)

I've often wondered whether the Army is the reason 44 didn't get improved after the original road was built in 1964. The railroads prevent effective widening to the east. Maybe the Army didn't want to give up any of the base?

Quote from: Plutonic Panda on July 07, 2021, 01:44:32 AM
I feel bad for Lawton. In regards to Oklahoma, it's not a city that is insignificant either for the state. It should get more than it gets. The fucking traffic signals in some parts of the city look like they are from the 70s. Lawton needs a freeway loop around it.

My hope is this, medicine park is a really cool low key area that hasn't really been discovered yet. I suspect as OKC, WF, and Tulsa grow the demand to get out of these big cities to small towns for some R&R will only grow. MP has potential to become a pretty popular town one day if they make the right moves. Maybe this will draw more interest to Lawton.

The army could decide to further invest in Fort Sill. Perhaps a private company takes it upon itself to build a large manufacturing plant. I wish Stitt would promote SW OK more.

I agree the Medicine Park area has some real growth and tourism potential, along with the nearby Wichita Mountains Wildlife refuge. A big problem with the MP area is a friend of mine, has a band that has performed twice there, and they were telling me that all the restaurants and bars close super early, like even before the concerts were over. I do not know if it is covid related or not, but does seem like they are missing out on major business opportunities.

Quote from: rte66manI've often wondered whether the Army is the reason 44 didn't get improved after the original road was built in 1964. The railroads prevent effective widening to the east. Maybe the Army didn't want to give up any of the base?

I doubt if the Army is an issue. Several other major military installations have very good super highway access. In Georgia I-185 effectively continues as a freeway for miles into Fort Benning. I-781 in Upstate New York was built as a connector for Fort Drum. Watertown nearby doesn't have any freeway loop or spur. Fort Bliss in the El Paso area is surrounded by Loop-375 and US-54 and is divided by the Spur 601 freeway. Fort Hood was part of the pitch to get the US-190 freeway in Killeen re-signed as I-14. The long term pitch for that route is connecting other military installations in the Deep South. To me it appear the military kind of likes super highway access to its installations.

In Lawton, I think the recent work they did to improve the Rogers Lane exit at I-44 was done partly to benefit the Army. The entrance to Fort Sill Gate 2 was re-configured in that project.

It would not be difficult to widen I-44 through the Key Gate area in Fort Sill. The old Rock Island rail line that came up into Lawton from Walters was decommissioned years ago. That rail line is what runs nearest to I-44 by Key Gate. The active BNSF line is adjacent to it about 40-50 yards to the East. If ODOT could get the old rail line ROW they would have more than enough room to add proper width shoulders or even additional lanes to I-44 there.

Of course there's plenty of room to expand Rogers Lane as well. The old "Artillery Village" housing area on the other side of the Rogers Lane sound wall was demolished 15 years ago. It's just unused, vacant land now.

Quote from: SoonerCowboyI agree the Medicine Park area has some real growth and tourism potential, along with the nearby Wichita Mountains Wildlife refuge. A big problem with the MP area is a friend of mine, has a band that has performed twice there, and they were telling me that all the restaurants and bars close super early, like even before the concerts were over. I do not know if it is covid related or not, but does seem like they are missing out on major business opportunities.

Perhaps shorter hours could be a COVID-19 thing. I know the Park Tavern stays open til 2:00am on weekends and midnight during the week. Restaurant hours can vary. The Old Plantation stays open til 9:00pm. My thinking is if Medicine Park continues to gain popularity and new places to eat or socialize open the various night spots out there will stay open longer. Just be careful about the police out there. They'll pull you over if you're speeding just a little bit.

I-781 was built because the Army was threating to shut down Fort Drum if it wasn't (BRAC).

I wish the Army would apply some leverage like that down here. The need for upgrades is quite a bit more legit, IMHO.

Quote from: Bobby5280 on July 07, 2021, 11:54:28 PM

Quote from: rte66manI've often wondered whether the Army is the reason 44 didn't get improved after the original road was built in 1964. The railroads prevent effective widening to the east. Maybe the Army didn't want to give up any of the base?

It would not be difficult to widen I-44 through the Key Gate area in Fort Sill. The old Rock Island rail line that came up into Lawton from Walters was decommissioned years ago. That rail line is what runs nearest to I-44 by Key Gate. The active BNSF line is adjacent to it about 40-50 yards to the East. If ODOT could get the old rail line ROW they would have more than enough room to add proper width shoulders or even additional lanes to I-44 there.

I had missed the diversion of the UP line to the BNSF tracks just north of the Main exit to the fort

Quote from: rte66man on June 07, 2021, 07:52:21 AMFor 10+ years, what was US62 (didn't become I-44 until the 80's) took a hard 100 degree turn just north of SW 74th.  That part was built to act as a connector to the H.E. Bailey turnpike when it was opened in 1964. For a couple of years years, US62 narrowed to 2 lanes from 74th south to the South Canadian River. The other lanes were graded, but I'm assuming ODOT didn't have the funds to pave immediately. What was I-440 wasn't completed north until the mid 70's.

Here is a link to an aerial of this curve in 1969.

https://www.historicaerials.com/location/35.393701060303385/-97.5719383238522/1969/16

It looks like ODOT is planning a grade separation for SH-4 at Fox Lane:

https://sh4atfoxlane.publicmeetinghub.com/alternatives-considered



ODOT would be wise to buy ROW at SH-37 for a grade separation.

Is there still a 4 way stop at OK 3/OK 4? There was in 2007.

Quote from: Plutonic PandaIt looks like ODOT is planning a grade separation for SH-4 at Fox Lane:

https://sh4atfoxlane.publicmeetinghub.com/alternatives-considered

The preferred alternative (3A2) is a diamond exit, which is what they need to build, even if they end up having to build it in phases with first a Super 2 arrangement and then Interstate quality dual roadways.

All the at-grade alternatives on that page suck. I can't even believe they have roundabouts as possible "solutions." Ugh. I pray the 3A2 alternative wins out. That would at least extend a 4-lane freeway from the OK-4/I-44 interchange a little farther. It's also important to note the ROW needed for the diamond exit at Fox Lane is already secure. In Google Earth you can see the easement barriers for the roadway based on how the terrain looks. ODOT or OTA could get a 4-lane freeway extended as far North as Rock Creek Road without having to buy any extra ROW.

Quote from: Plutonic PandaODOT would be wise to buy ROW at SH-37 for a grade separation.

They'll have to buy and clear several properties along OK-4 leading up to the OK-4/OK-37 intersection. Three of the four corners at that intersection are occupied by properties. ODOT/OTA would have to buy and clear the properties on at least one side of the road to make room for the freeway and exit. The Western side of the road has fewer properties, but some are going to be pissed about a church getting bulldozed to make way for a super highway. But it's something ODOT/OTA need to do to be honest. That H.E. Bailey turnpike extension needs to at least make it over the Canadian River (and those twin bridges they built in the 1990's). If a OK-4 freeway/turnpike could at least make it into the South edge of Mustang it would leave a fairly short Breezewood along S Sara Road and OK-152. Over time ODOT/OTA could come up with some creative way to bridge that gap.

Quote from: bugoIs there still a 4 way stop at OK 3/OK 4? There was in 2007.

Do you mean the OK-3/OK-4 intersection on the Northwest outskirts of OKC? Or do you mean the OK37/OK-4 intersection in Bridge Creek? In either case, the answer is yes. Both intersections have traffic signals.

I think bugo's question was regarding there being a 4-way stop sign at OK 3/OK 4 near Piedmont, which there was for a long time. January 2008 is the earliest street view of the area, and the intersection was signalized by then.

Quote from: Bobby5280 on April 13, 2022, 10:59:33 PM

Quote from: Plutonic PandaIt looks like ODOT is planning a grade separation for SH-4 at Fox Lane:

https://sh4atfoxlane.publicmeetinghub.com/alternatives-considered

The preferred alternative (3A2) is a diamond exit, which is what they need to build, even if they end up having to build it in phases with first a Super 2 arrangement and then Interstate quality dual roadways.

All the at-grade alternatives on that page suck. I can't even believe they have roundabouts as possible "solutions." Ugh. I pray the 3A2 alternative wins out. That would at least extend a 4-lane freeway from the OK-4/I-44 interchange a little farther. It's also important to note the ROW needed for the diamond exit at Fox Lane is already secure. In Google Earth you can see the easement barriers for the roadway based on how the terrain looks. ODOT or OTA could get a 4-lane freeway extended as far North as Rock Creek Road without having to buy any extra ROW.

And there'S also an intersection with a local street (CR-1226) to get rid of. https://goo.gl/maps/Z9JUy1p2R2h7FZCNA

Yeah, they're just going to have to get rid of that side street entrance (aka CR-1226). It doesn't look like there is enough room to build a frontage road alongside OK-4 from Sooner Road up to Fox Lane. Still, everything in that subdivision next to OK-4 has outlets onto Sooner Road. Mustang Road can be used to drive up to the OK-4 exit at Fox Lane. With a bit of extra ROW on the left side of OK-4 they could re-direct CR-1226 up to Fox Lane. Also, that service barn near the CR-1226 intersection might have to be moved.

The Texas turnaround at Penn and Memorial was opened for traffic today:

https://twitter.com/OKDOT/status/1534218787775516672?cxt=HHwWgMC40fv20coqAAAA

Not sure if I posted this before but ODOT is once again looking at improvements to I-35 in the south metro. The main improvements shown were major investments in the service roads by one way conversions and auxiliary lanes. This would do a lot to help but I still content they need to move the Flood Ave. ramp to the right side of the freeway eliminating the left exit.

Eventually new GP lanes will be needed. I wouldn't be against HO/T lanes so as long as they were two each way but I seriously doubt that would go over well here especially with the current turnpike controversy. ODOT seemed to hint at a possibility of studying for future GP lanes on I-35 but I can't remember how they worded it.

Once more information comes out I'll post a dedicated thread.

Quote
The Oklahoma City Department of Transportation is seeking solutions for traffic issues.

The OKC metro does not have the traffic nightmares seen in some other American cities, but it can get worse, especially during the evening rush hour.

Interstate 35 south of the Oklahoma River can turn into a parking lot. At an ODOT meeting on Monday, the traffic experts said traffic will get a whole lot worse in the years and decades to come.

Residents pleaded for improvements for safety and access to the interstate and proposed claims of auxiliary lanes be added and options such as transits, commuter rails and Amtraks.

The master plan needed for this project is set to finish within the next year.

- https://www.koco.com/article/oklahoma-city-transportation-solutions-traffic-issues/40210225

Expect construction at the SH-74 Hefner parkway Kilpatrick interchange. Minor projects:

Quote
The finished $4.4 million project will add protected turnarounds on the east and west sides of the interchange to ease current traffic congestion and increase safety.

- https://kfor.com/news/get-ready-for-traffic-jams-memorial-rd-kilpatrick-tpk-lake-hefner-pkwy/?utm_campaign=socialflow&utm_source=facebook.com&utm_medium=referral&fbclid=IwAR3ki7ZXU4xufQD6Udto2cZFBnAMKyGYoz-WYDx9Wp57p5OAhdgwzLCzqiQ

Aren't they planning to add a couple more flyover ramps at the Kilpatrick-Hefner Parkway interchange?

Quote from: Bobby5280 on September 26, 2022, 10:19:34 PM
Aren't they planning to add a couple more flyover ramps at the Kilpatrick-Hefner Parkway interchange?

Yes. They will complete the entire interchange two more ramps

Quote from: Plutonic Panda on September 27, 2022, 03:25:36 AM

Quote from: Bobby5280 on September 26, 2022, 10:19:34 PM
Aren't they planning to add a couple more flyover ramps at the Kilpatrick-Hefner Parkway interchange?

Yes. They will complete the entire interchange two more ramps

ODOT's share of the cash for the flyover ramps has already been allocated. Now its a matter of getting OTA to prioritize it over the seemingly 100's of other projects in Access Oklahoma

Quote from: Plutonic PandaYes. They will complete the entire interchange two more ramps

Currently, with 2 existing flyover ramps on the SE corner, the interchange is technically 25% complete. Another 2 ramps for the SW corner would make the Southern half of the interchange complete. There's still the Northern half to consider.

Quote from: rte66manODOT's share of the cash for the flyover ramps has already been allocated. Now its a matter of getting OTA to prioritize it over the seemingly 100's of other projects in Access Oklahoma

If the project is funded OTA had better get on the ball with it soon. Otherwise the effects of inflation will have the actual project costs bleeding into the red.

I Hate Trending:



https://kfor.com/news/get-ready-for-traffic-jams-memorial-rd-kilpatrick-tpk-lake-hefner-pkwy/

(https://kfor.com/news/get-ready-for-traffic-jams-memorial-rd-kilpatrick-tpk-lake-hefner-pkwy/)

Quote

NEWS
Construction project starting along busy OKC roadways
by: Heather Holeman/KFOR

Posted: Sep 26, 2022 / 01:52 PM CDT

Updated: Sep 27, 2022 / 07:18 AM CDT

SHARE
OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) — The Oklahoma Turnpike Authority is warning motorists to prepare for traffic tie-ups until spring of 2023 in one of Oklahoma City's busiest areas.

The John Kilpatrick Turnpike, SH-74 ramps (Lake Hefner Parkway), and Memorial Road will all be reduced to one lane in specific areas starting at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, September 27th.

Oklahoma City activist arrested following allegations of elder neglect
The finished $4.4 million project will add protected turnarounds on the east and west sides of the interchange to ease current traffic congestion and increase safety.

According to a press release from the OTA, these are the changes motorists can expect until spring, weather permitting:

• The eastbound and westbound John Kilpatrick Turnpike off-ramps to Memorial Rd. will be narrowed to one lane;
• Eastbound and westbound Memorial Rd. will be narrowed to two lanes in each direction between May Ave. and Meridian Ave. with work concentrated at the JKT and SH-74/Lake Hefner Parkway interchange. The ramp lane will be closed.
• SH-74/Lake Hefner Parkway northbound and southbound service roads (Portland Ave.) will be narrowed to one lane between the JKT bridge and Memorial Rd.
• Northbound and southbound SH-74/Lake Hefner Parkway off-ramps to Memorial Rd. will be narrowed to one lane.

The OTA states that motorists should expect delays and to plan extra time in those areas until the project is complete.

SH-74 Bridge over I-35 is set to be replaced and allow for a widening of the interstate to six lanes: https://oklahoma.gov/odot/citizen/newsroom/2022/odot-seeks-virtual-public-comments-for-sh-74-at-i-35-goldsby-pro.html

Quote from: Plutonic Panda on October 10, 2022, 07:52:18 PM
SH-74 Bridge over I-35 is set to be replaced and allow for a widening of the interstate to six lanes: https://oklahoma.gov/odot/citizen/newsroom/2022/odot-seeks-virtual-public-comments-for-sh-74-at-i-35-goldsby-pro.html

Bizarre timing, considering they just completely redid that interchange. Wonder why they didn't replace it then?

Quote from: Scott5114 on October 10, 2022, 09:55:31 PM

Quote from: Plutonic Panda on October 10, 2022, 07:52:18 PM
SH-74 Bridge over I-35 is set to be replaced and allow for a widening of the interstate to six lanes: https://oklahoma.gov/odot/citizen/newsroom/2022/odot-seeks-virtual-public-comments-for-sh-74-at-i-35-goldsby-pro.html

Bizarre timing, considering they just completely redid that interchange. Wonder why they didn't replace it then?

Yeah it is a weird project. It looks like they might keep the exits they just redid. But hey ODOT.

Quote from: Plutonic Panda on October 10, 2022, 10:12:37 PM

Quote from: Scott5114 on October 10, 2022, 09:55:31 PM

Quote from: Plutonic Panda on October 10, 2022, 07:52:18 PM
SH-74 Bridge over I-35 is set to be replaced and allow for a widening of the interstate to six lanes: https://oklahoma.gov/odot/citizen/newsroom/2022/odot-seeks-virtual-public-comments-for-sh-74-at-i-35-goldsby-pro.html

Bizarre timing, considering they just completely redid that interchange. Wonder why they didn't replace it then?

Yeah it is a weird project. It looks like they might keep the exits they just redid. But hey ODOT.

I still don't understand what the purpose of building that fancy new parclo ramp was if they were just going to retain the shitty original ramp to the service road anyway.

Quote from: Scott5114 on October 11, 2022, 04:29:57 AM

Quote from: Plutonic Panda on October 10, 2022, 10:12:37 PM

Quote from: Scott5114 on October 10, 2022, 09:55:31 PM

Quote from: Plutonic Panda on October 10, 2022, 07:52:18 PM
SH-74 Bridge over I-35 is set to be replaced and allow for a widening of the interstate to six lanes: https://oklahoma.gov/odot/citizen/newsroom/2022/odot-seeks-virtual-public-comments-for-sh-74-at-i-35-goldsby-pro.html

Bizarre timing, considering they just completely redid that interchange. Wonder why they didn't replace it then?

Yeah it is a weird project. It looks like they might keep the exits they just redid. But hey ODOT.

I still don't understand what the purpose of building that fancy new parclo ramp was if they were just going to retain the shitty original ramp to the service road anyway.

I don't understand why they're building the SH-9 ramp as anything other than a directional interchange. I don't understand why the decided to delay one of the busiest interchanges in the city that in desperate need for an overhaul for some rural road road upgrade east of Tulsa. ODOT is full of a bunching fucking bullshit IMO.

Quote from: Plutonic Panda on October 11, 2022, 04:38:08 AM

Quote from: Scott5114 on October 11, 2022, 04:29:57 AM

Quote from: Plutonic Panda on October 10, 2022, 10:12:37 PM

Quote from: Scott5114 on October 10, 2022, 09:55:31 PM

Quote from: Plutonic Panda on October 10, 2022, 07:52:18 PM
SH-74 Bridge over I-35 is set to be replaced and allow for a widening of the interstate to six lanes: https://oklahoma.gov/odot/citizen/newsroom/2022/odot-seeks-virtual-public-comments-for-sh-74-at-i-35-goldsby-pro.html

Bizarre timing, considering they just completely redid that interchange. Wonder why they didn't replace it then?

Yeah it is a weird project. It looks like they might keep the exits they just redid. But hey ODOT.

I still don't understand what the purpose of building that fancy new parclo ramp was if they were just going to retain the shitty original ramp to the service road anyway.

I don't understand why they're building the SH-9 ramp as anything other than a directional interchange. I don't understand why the decided to delay one of the busiest interchanges in the city that in desperate need for an overhaul for some rural road road upgrade east of Tulsa. ODOT is full of a bunching fucking bullshit IMO.

It's because if you want the government to spend more than $3 per year, you're a godless commie.

Quote from: Scott5114 on October 11, 2022, 05:02:50 AM

Quote from: Plutonic Panda on October 11, 2022, 04:38:08 AM

Quote from: Scott5114 on October 11, 2022, 04:29:57 AM

Quote from: Plutonic Panda on October 10, 2022, 10:12:37 PM

Quote from: Scott5114 on October 10, 2022, 09:55:31 PM

Quote from: Plutonic Panda on October 10, 2022, 07:52:18 PM
SH-74 Bridge over I-35 is set to be replaced and allow for a widening of the interstate to six lanes: https://oklahoma.gov/odot/citizen/newsroom/2022/odot-seeks-virtual-public-comments-for-sh-74-at-i-35-goldsby-pro.html

Bizarre timing, considering they just completely redid that interchange. Wonder why they didn't replace it then?

Yeah it is a weird project. It looks like they might keep the exits they just redid. But hey ODOT.

I still don't understand what the purpose of building that fancy new parclo ramp was if they were just going to retain the shitty original ramp to the service road anyway.

I don't understand why they're building the SH-9 ramp as anything other than a directional interchange. I don't understand why the decided to delay one of the busiest interchanges in the city that in desperate need for an overhaul for some rural road road upgrade east of Tulsa. ODOT is full of a bunching fucking bullshit IMO.

It's because if you want the government to spend more than $3 per year, you're a godless commie.

You hit the nail on the head. Some states like Louisiana have some serious issues that are going to take a miracle to solve. Oklahoma could do it if people could just pay a tiny bit more and come together to agree to propel the state forward but I guess that's a pipe dream. But hey, how about OSU winning? That's what it's about right lol

Quote from: Plutonic Panda on October 11, 2022, 04:38:08 AM

Quote from: Scott5114 on October 11, 2022, 04:29:57 AM

Quote from: Plutonic Panda on October 10, 2022, 10:12:37 PM

Quote from: Scott5114 on October 10, 2022, 09:55:31 PM

Quote from: Plutonic Panda on October 10, 2022, 07:52:18 PM
SH-74 Bridge over I-35 is set to be replaced and allow for a widening of the interstate to six lanes: https://oklahoma.gov/odot/citizen/newsroom/2022/odot-seeks-virtual-public-comments-for-sh-74-at-i-35-goldsby-pro.html

Bizarre timing, considering they just completely redid that interchange. Wonder why they didn't replace it then?

Yeah it is a weird project. It looks like they might keep the exits they just redid. But hey ODOT.

I still don't understand what the purpose of building that fancy new parclo ramp was if they were just going to retain the shitty original ramp to the service road anyway.

I don't understand why they're building the SH-9 ramp as anything other than a directional interchange. I don't understand why the decided to delay one of the busiest interchanges in the city that in desperate need for an overhaul for some rural road road upgrade east of Tulsa. ODOT is full of a bunching fucking bullshit IMO.

Transportation funding in Oklahoma is allocated to transportation districts by population so a project in district 8 (Tulsa region) has no impact on the timing of funding for the I-240/I-35 interchange in district 4. The ONLY time I can recall a project getting extra state allocated funding outside of competitive federal grants was relocating I-40 by downtown Oklahoma City.

All three of Tulsa's busiest interchanges (I-44/US-169, OK-51/US-169 and I-44/OK-51) are still simple cloverleafs where the highways and bridges were widened and improved years/decades ago and any work on the ramps is scheduled well after all of OKC's major interchanges, if at all. The only reason I-44/US-75 is being done first is that interchange, including the highways and bridges, was 60 years old, very poorly maintained and actually was degenerating in gravel.

So your statement is a bunch(ing) fucking bullshit. IMO.

Oklahoma needs to increase gas/diesel taxes by at least 10 cents a gallon so we stop leaving federal dollars on the table and take better care of roads.

Widening of I-35 between exits 104 (SH-74) and 106 (SH-9 west) in Goldsby will begin this year. The portion between exits 101 and 104 will follow thereafter.

https://www.i35mcclaincounty.com/

Quote from: swake on October 11, 2022, 10:36:46 PM
All three of Tulsa's busiest interchanges (I-44/US-169, OK-51/US-169 and I-44/OK-51) are still simple cloverleafs where the highways and bridges were widened and improved years/decades ago and any work on the ramps is scheduled well after all of OKC's major interchanges, if at all. The only reason I-44/US-75 is being done first is that interchange, including the highways and bridges, was 60 years old, very poorly maintained and actually was degenerating in gravel.

The Okmulgee cloverleaf and the BA cloverleaf were built about the same time. I've wondered why the BA cloverleaf has been basically ignored since then (excepting the c/d lane changes to move the EB Memorial Dr exit west of the cloverleaf).

Speaking of the I-44/US-75 interchange in Tulsa: has ODOT simply stopped work on that interchange or what?

Based on Google Street View imagery dated 11/2022 on US-75 going thru the interchange it looks like all the overpass support pylons are finished. But it looks like hardly any other work is in progress. There aren't any cranes lifting beams into place to span those pylons. All are just sitting there empty. An excavator machine and a couple other pieces of equipment are visible on the property doing some grading work. To me that appears to be preparation for laying down new sod.

I guess I'm concerned they might be fixing to pull off the project and just let it sit there in this stage for a couple or so years before resuming work. ODOT dragged out the I-44/I-235/B'way Extension interchange project for more than a freaking decade.

Quote from: Bobby5280 on January 11, 2023, 12:01:47 PM
Speaking of the I-44/US-75 interchange in Tulsa: has ODOT simply stopped work on that interchange or what?

Based on Google Street View imagery dated 11/2022 on US-75 going thru the interchange it looks like all the overpass support pylons are finished. But it looks like hardly any other work is in progress. There aren't any cranes lifting beams into place to span those pylons. All are just sitting there empty. An excavator machine and a couple other pieces of equipment are visible on the property doing some grading work. To me that appears to be preparation for laying down new sod.

I guess I'm concerned they might be fixing to pull off the project and just let it sit there in this stage for a couple or so years before resuming work. ODOT dragged out the I-44/I-235/B'way Extension interchange project for more than a freaking decade.

The next two phases are set to go to bid in June with another in 2024.

I'm planning on driving down to OKC on Feb. 3 - is there any ongoing construction that I should know about on I-35 north of the city?

Quote from: KCRoadFan on January 12, 2023, 12:30:45 PM
I'm planning on driving down to OKC on Feb. 3 - is there any ongoing construction that I should know about on I-35 north of the city?

https://ok.maps.arcgis.com/apps/Viewer/index.html?appid=023e821ebf7b4acd999ccfd58d92c3da

Original article (https://www.koco.com/article/oklahoma-upgrades-metro-interchange/42436715)

Quote
Oklahoma approves major upgrades to busy metro interchange
A $75 million project starts this summer at Interstate 35 and Interstate 240

OKLAHOMA CITY –
Oklahoma just approved major upgrades to a busy metro interchange.

A $75 million project starts this summer at Interstate 35 and Interstate 240. The project will bring everything on I-240 up to standard by fixing on and off ramps, rebuilding and paving frontage roads and adding a turnaround on 59th Street, but it won't come without some painful closures.

"This is, again, like the 235-44 interchange. One of those interchanges that has needed updating for a very long time. With our funding in the past, they couldn't always go and attack a full interchange with the amount it cost to bring one up to date and so, we've had to do this project in phases," said Trenton January, district four engineer at the Oklahoma Department of Transportation.

The outdated but busy interchange is finally set to see updates.

"Really, we're working on all of the outsides of the interchange, completing all of the outsides, so that with our next project, which is scheduled in two years, to go work on the inside of the interchange," January said.

The state plans to bring ramps and lanes up to date with design standards, along with paving and replacing railroad bridges near northbound I-35 and eastbound I-240.

"They don't operate with the amount of traffic that we have out there. The bridges are starting to become older and specifically, at this interchange, there are some traffic issues with people merging off of 240, getting onto 35 where the merge distances are not as long as they need to be. If you compare it to the 235-44 job, that last phase that we did where we built the flyovers and several other bridges, that's what that last phase of 35 and 240 is going to look like," January said.

When that phase comes is when ODOT expects full weekend closures to take down those bridges safely.

"So, really improving this interchange, making it safer for the traveling public is going to be a huge impact and it's going to help the corridors 240 and 35 flow a lot better," January said.

Older bridges will be replaced with lots of paving and rebuilding to come. Eventually, Oklahomans will see those flyovers in 2025 but ODOT said overall, the project should help with traffic issues and raise the standards on some of the most traveled on interstates.

"Eventually, Oklahomans will see those flyovers in 2025..."

The way the time line looks Oklahomans may only see the support pylons of those flyovers begin construction in 2025. Hopefully the project phases of this interchange project will be completed faster than the I-44/I-235 interchange. That one dragged out for over a decade.

Meanwhile it sort of looks like ACCESS Oklahoma plans are back on track. That open meeting violation chapter in the saga is a moot point now. The lawsuits from groups like Pike-Off appear to be going nowhere. The controversy has still delayed the project study process (some of that was supposed to be complete by early 2023).

Anyway, once these ACCESS Oklahoma projects finally get started (2025 maybe?) the construction on each project may go quite a bit faster than the state's gasoline tax funded projects. I don't know when the East-West Connector turnpike will be built. The proposed directional stack interchange with I-35 has a preliminary cost of $365 million. With the turnpikes being funded through bonds rather than fuel taxes that new interchange may be built all at once rather than phases spread out over several years.

This isn't a small project and will eventually warrant its own thread but I suppose we should wait until more in depth details emerge.

For some time now the I-35 bridge over the Oklahoma River near DTOKC has been planned on being replaced with a larger, wider, long span signature structure. We are getting to seeing official plans and a schedule for.

The first real movement is this funding request from ODOT for the pedestrian path component complimenting the massive OKANA development to the east.

Here is a link with a rendering and more details: https://oklahoma.gov/content/dam/ok/en/odot/federal-grants/raise/2023/multimodal-connections-on-i-35-over-the-oklahoma-river/application/Project%20Description.pdf

I'd be impressed if someone could build a four level stack for less than half a billion these days, even in Oklahoma.

Quote from: triplemultiplex on March 28, 2023, 05:52:23 PM
I'd be impressed if someone could build a four level stack for less than half a billion these days, even in Oklahoma.

Arkansas has a couple in the works for I-49/I-40 and I-49/(AR-612/US-412 Bypass). I think we'll see the northern one within the next 4 years, but it'd likely be toward the end of the decade for I-49/I-40, so who knows what inflation does to roadbuilding costs in that time.

In the case of the I-40/I-49 interchange, I suspect AR DOT will keep the flyover ramps in the existing "Y" interchange and merely add two more flyovers. After all, they're going to build the Alma-Barling segment in a Super-2 phase at first. I would be surprised if they did a full reconstruction of the interchange.

Likewise, the more recently built I-49/AR-612 interchange is halfway completed.

US-77 and SH-66 in Edmond will be resurfaced as part of an ODOT project and it has already begun construction.

Project page: https://oklahoma.gov/odot/citizen/major-projects/ongoing-projects/us-77-broadway-and-us-77-sh-66-second-st--resurfacing-in-edmond.html

Interestingly enough there is now talk about these segments being transferred from ODOT control to Edmond in the future after a major reconstruction into a concrete roadway with more design and other features happens down the road. It's something that likely won't happen this decade but talks are beginning.

Quote from: Plutonic Panda on April 14, 2023, 04:22:29 AM
US-77 and SH-66 in Edmond will be resurfaced as part of an ODOT project and it has already begun construction.

Project page: https://oklahoma.gov/odot/citizen/major-projects/ongoing-projects/us-77-broadway-and-us-77-sh-66-second-st--resurfacing-in-edmond.html

Interestingly enough there is now talk about these segments being transferred from ODOT control to Edmond in the future after a major reconstruction into a concrete roadway with more design and other features happens down the road. It's something that likely won't happen this decade but talks are beginning.

As you are aware, Broadway from the end of the freeway north of Memorial to 2nd Street has large sections with no curbs. Way too many crossovers, too short left turn lanes, and nonexistent right turn only lanes. I can't see ODOT forking over the millions to "upgrade" it just to turn it over to the City of Edmond.

It also made me wonder how they would reroute US77? Turn east at the Kilpatrick? Who would be responsible for the OKC setion of freeway?

Quote from: rte66man on April 15, 2023, 03:14:50 PM

Quote from: Plutonic Panda on April 14, 2023, 04:22:29 AM
US-77 and SH-66 in Edmond will be resurfaced as part of an ODOT project and it has already begun construction.

Project page: https://oklahoma.gov/odot/citizen/major-projects/ongoing-projects/us-77-broadway-and-us-77-sh-66-second-st--resurfacing-in-edmond.html

Interestingly enough there is now talk about these segments being transferred from ODOT control to Edmond in the future after a major reconstruction into a concrete roadway with more design and other features happens down the road. It's something that likely won't happen this decade but talks are beginning.

As you are aware, Broadway from the end of the freeway north of Memorial to 2nd Street has large sections with no curbs. Way too many crossovers, too short left turn lanes, and nonexistent right turn only lanes. I can't see ODOT forking over the millions to "upgrade" it just to turn it over to the City of Edmond.

It also made me wonder how they would reroute US77? Turn east at the Kilpatrick? Who would be responsible for the OKC setion of freeway?

Well, to be fair, that would be less mileage they would have to deal with in the future. But I'm sure Edmond would pay for the majority of the improvements. To do what it sounded like Edmond wanted to do would probably be 100+  million dollars or close to it.

A project will begin in a few years to address the merging issues at the I-35/Kilpatrick/I-44 interchange. This will also add a third Lane on southbound on I 35.

Here's the proposal:

QuoteThe proposed project will add a southbound through lane along I-35 beginning just south of Memorial Road extending south to Hefner Road. Dedicated auxiliary lanes will be provided for traffic entering and exiting I-35. To reduce the potential for collisions due to the complex weaving movements at NE 122nd Street, a concrete barrier will be constructed to prevent westbound Turner Turnpike traffic from exiting at NE 122nd Street. Traffic will then be allowed to merge onto I-35 prior to the exit at Hefner Road. Turner Turnpike traffic wanting to access NE 122nd Street will exit to I-35 north and take Sooner Road south to NE 122nd Street.

- https://oklahoma.gov/odot/programs-and-projects0/public-meetings-and-hearings0/public-meetings-and-hearings/20230801.html

Presentation with more details goes live 8/2/2023.

Honestly, this is kind of what I expected. The concrete barrier, though not ideal will certainly be welcome to prevent people from weaving from the left side to the right side of the highway. It'll definitely change the feel of the area. Though this is a cheap solution. Ideally, this entire interchange will be rebuilt. But that ain't happening for another several decades.

The SH-9/I-35 project should begin soon

Quote
·         Commissioners will consider awarding an up to $105 million project to realign the I-35 and SH-9W interchange south of Norman creating a Diverging Diamond Interchange.

https://oklahoma.gov/odot/citizen/newsroom/2023/august-transportation-commission-meeting-scheduled-for-monday--a.html

Quote from: Plutonic Panda on July 25, 2023, 01:54:41 AM
A project will begin in a few years to address the merging issues at the I-35/Kilpatrick/I-44 interchange. This will also add a third Lane on southbound on I 35.

Here's the proposal:

QuoteThe proposed project will add a southbound through lane along I-35 beginning just south of Memorial Road extending south to Hefner Road. Dedicated auxiliary lanes will be provided for traffic entering and exiting I-35. To reduce the potential for collisions due to the complex weaving movements at NE 122nd Street, a concrete barrier will be constructed to prevent westbound Turner Turnpike traffic from exiting at NE 122nd Street. Traffic will then be allowed to merge onto I-35 prior to the exit at Hefner Road. Turner Turnpike traffic wanting to access NE 122nd Street will exit to I-35 north and take Sooner Road south to NE 122nd Street.

- https://oklahoma.gov/odot/programs-and-projects0/public-meetings-and-hearings0/public-meetings-and-hearings/20230801.html

Presentation with more details goes live 8/2/2023.

Honestly, this is kind of what I expected. The concrete barrier, though not ideal will certainly be welcome to prevent people from weaving from the left side to the right side of the highway. It'll definitely change the feel of the area. Though this is a cheap solution. Ideally, this entire interchange will be rebuilt. But that ain't happening for another several decades.

Here's a link to the project page which at the bottom has other links that include schematics of the proposal: https://oklahoma.gov/odot/programs-and-projects0/public-meetings-and-hearings0/public-meetings-and-hearings/20230801.html

Quote from: Plutonic Panda on August 09, 2023, 04:01:10 AM
The SH-9/I-35 project should begin soon

Quote
·         Commissioners will consider awarding an up to $105 million project to realign the I-35 and SH-9W interchange south of Norman creating a Diverging Diamond Interchange.

https://oklahoma.gov/odot/citizen/newsroom/2023/august-transportation-commission-meeting-scheduled-for-monday--a.html

It also includes a short widening of I-35 to the Goldsby interchange:

QuoteApproved at the commission meeting was an up to $105 million project to reconstruct the I-35 and SH-9W interchange south of Norman to accommodate heavy traffic in the area. The project will convert the interchange into a Divergent Diamond Interchange configuration, similar to the one now in use in Elk City at I-40 and Main St. The project will also expand I-35 to six lanes from the Canadian River south to the Goldsby interchange. The reconstruction will begin this fall and is expected to complete in summer of 2026.

- https://oklahoma.gov/odot/citizen/newsroom/2023/august-commission-meeting-wrap-up.html

SH-66 and US-81 intersection in El Reno will be converted to a roundabout. The project starts tomorrow at 9am: https://kfor.com/news/local/el-reno-roundabout-construction-begins/

I kind of cringe at designs of a four lane highway going into a roundabout. If there is a lot of traffic moving through the intersection it could get even more dicey. Too many Americans don't know the rules of driving through roundabouts. Too many others aren't paying attention; some of them even go barreling through the middle of the intersection.

Quote from: Bobby5280 on February 15, 2024, 12:08:12 AM
I kind of cringe at designs of a four lane highway going into a roundabout. If there is a lot of traffic moving through the intersection it could get even more dicey. Too many Americans don't know the rules of driving through roundabouts. Too many others aren't paying attention; some of them even go barreling through the middle of the intersection.

As a person who is used to roundabouts in Indiana, they work fine with a lot of traffic!

As long as the roundbout itself can be done with two lanes, it'll be fine.

Quote from: Rothman on February 15, 2024, 07:02:53 AM
As long as the roundbout itself can be done with two lanes, it'll be fine.

* tradephoric scribbles a note to himself

It's one thing if the roundabout is at an intersection of urban streets with fairly slow speeds, like downtown Oklahoma City. The roundabout location in El Reno is the first traffic light on US-81 past the interchange with I-40. The speed limit on US-81 is 55mph thru the I-40 interchange and drops to 45mph until the traffic signal with OK-66.

Roundabouts are still pretty uncommon in Oklahoma. They're not very common in Texas either; some traffic exiting I-40 onto US-81 in El Reno might be coming from that direction. Amarillo has a couple roundabouts, but they're inside new upper income neighborhood developments. It's not the same as having a roundabout positioned at a significant highway intersection. Fender benders happen all the time at roundabouts. There are countless numbers of dashcam videos showing such accidents.

Design looks fine to me.  It would make sense to drop the speed limit about a half mile from this intersection if that isn't already part of the plan.  Four lane roundabouts are popping up all over various DFW suburbs, Oklahoma is the next logical place for development of them - increased exposure to them is the only thing that will train drivers in the use of them.

Arkansas is fixing to build 28 of them on the 4 lane expansion of AR-112.  Design speed is 45MPH, though.

Quote from: I-35 on February 15, 2024, 11:18:33 AM
Design looks fine to me.  It would make sense to drop the speed limit about a half mile from this intersection if that isn't already part of the plan.  Four lane roundabouts are popping up all over various DFW suburbs, Oklahoma is the next logical place for development of them - increased exposure to them is the only thing that will train drivers in the use of them.

Quoteincreased exposure to them is the only thing that will train drivers in the use of them.

It is not possible to train any body to use any thing any more. People have gotten that dumb.

Perhaps if Roundabouts included yellow flashing lights on every road connected.

Anything is better than the roundabouts in Los Angeles. They will build a roundabout here, and then put stop signs, making it a four way stop. It's one of the dumbest things I've ever seen.

Quote from: Plutonic Panda on February 16, 2024, 10:02:44 PM
Anything is better than the roundabouts in Los Angeles. They will build a roundabout here, and then put stop signs, making it a four way stop. It's one of the dumbest things I've ever seen.

Safety first!