Oklahoma City, January 15, 2026
Oklahoma City is undergoing significant road construction projects aimed at improving traffic flow, safety, and connectivity. Key projects include the widening of Western Avenue and Memorial Road, and the upgrade of major highways. These initiatives are part of a long-term plan to support local economic growth and enhance the overall infrastructure of the city.
Major Road Construction Projects Expanding Infrastructure in Oklahoma City
Enhancing Connectivity and Safety Through Local Initiatives
Oklahoma City, OK – Significant road construction projects are currently underway across Oklahoma City and its surrounding areas, with the aim of enhancing traffic flow, safety, and overall connectivity for residents and businesses alike. These initiatives reflect a broader commitment to support local economic growth through improvements in infrastructure.
The benefits of these infrastructure upgrades extend beyond convenience; they foster an environment where small businesses can thrive and new entrepreneurs can seize opportunities. The focus on improving key roadways aligns with the vision of a better Oklahoma City, enabling residents to navigate their city with greater ease and promoting local commerce.
Western Avenue and Memorial Road Improvements
The City of Oklahoma City has embarked on a comprehensive project to improve Western Avenue and Memorial Road. This initiative includes:
- Widening Western Avenue from south of Pawnee Drive to south of NW 138th Street.
- Resurfacing Western Avenue from NW 122nd Street to south of Pawnee Drive.
- Resurfacing NW 122nd Street from Western Avenue to Santa Fe Avenue.
The estimated cost of this project is $12.6 million and it is funded through Street Development Fees and ACOG. The Oklahoma Department of Transportation (ODOT) and the City of Oklahoma City are managing the construction, with public input being encouraged through virtual meetings.
John Kilpatrick Turnpike Widening
A $14.7 million project is currently underway to widen the John Kilpatrick Turnpike to six lanes between Eastern Avenue and I-35. This construction also includes improvements to the eastbound John Kilpatrick ramp to northbound I-35, featuring a 12-foot acceleration lane and a 10-foot shoulder. This project is approximately 30% complete and is expected to be fully operational by the fall of 2025.
Will Rogers Turnpike Reconstruction and Widening
The extensive $610 million reconstruction and widening of the Will Rogers Turnpike aims to incorporate safety features and access improvements from Catoosa to Claremore. This project will enhance travel safety between US-412 and SH-20, including improved access at Pine Street. The estimated completion date for this initiative is set for 2036.
Kickapoo Turnpike Extension
The recently designated Interstate 335 (I-335) encompasses a 19.6-mile controlled-access toll road in Oklahoma. The northern section from US-62 to I-44 opened in October 2020, followed by the southern segment from SE 89th Street to US-62, which opened in January 2021. A planned extension southward to I-35 is in the works, further augmenting the state’s roadway infrastructure.
Background Context
All of these projects are part of the ACCESS Oklahoma long-range plan—a comprehensive 15-year initiative designed to revitalize and modernize Oklahoma’s turnpike system. The plan intends to introduce new interchange access points, widen existing turnpikes, update bridges and pavement, and create three new routes in the Oklahoma City metro area. By focusing on these enhancements, Oklahoma’s state planners aim to significantly improve safety and connectivity across the state.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Western Avenue and Memorial Road Improvement Project?
The project involves widening Western Avenue and resurfacing both Western Avenue and NW 122nd Street to enhance safety and traffic flow. The estimated cost is $12.6 million, funded by Street Development Fees and ACOG, with construction managed by ODOT and OKC. Public input is being sought through a virtual meeting.
When is the John Kilpatrick Turnpike Widening Project expected to be completed?
The $14.7 million project to widen the John Kilpatrick Turnpike to six lanes between Eastern Avenue and I-35 is 30% complete and expected to be fully open to traffic in fall 2025.
What is the estimated completion date for the Will Rogers Turnpike Reconstruction and Widening Project?
The $610 million reconstruction and widening project of the Will Rogers Turnpike, including safety features and access improvements from Catoosa to Claremore, is estimated to be completed by 2036.
What is the Kickapoo Turnpike Extension?
The Kickapoo Turnpike, designated as Interstate 335 (I-335) since November 2024, is a 19.6-mile controlled-access toll road in Oklahoma. The northern section from US-62 to I-44 opened on October 13, 2020, and the southern segment from SE 89th Street to US-62 opened on January 5, 2021. A southern extension to I-35 is planned, with AASHTO approving an application from ODOT to assign it the interstate designation I-335 in November 2023.
Key Features of the Road Construction Projects
| Project | Description | Estimated Cost | Completion Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Western Avenue and Memorial Road Improvements | Widening and resurfacing to enhance safety and traffic flow. | $12.6 million | Ongoing; public input being sought. |
| John Kilpatrick Turnpike Widening | Widening to six lanes between Eastern Avenue and I-35, including ramp improvements. | $14.7 million | Expected to be fully open in fall 2025. |
| Will Rogers Turnpike Reconstruction and Widening | Reconstruction and widening with safety features and access improvements from Catoosa to Claremore. | $610 million | Estimated completion by 2036. |
| Kickapoo Turnpike Extension | Extension of the 19.6-mile toll road, designated as I-335, with a planned southern extension to I-35. | Not specified | Southern extension planned; I-335 designation approved in November 2023. |
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