As noted in last week’s issue of the Newcastle Pacer, the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority has taken the next step in improving connection between U.S. Interstate 44, State Highway 37 and the future Toby Keith Expressway where the three roads meet in McClain County.
The first phase of the project has a budget of $75.3 million and will include construction of a diverging diamond interchange. The project is part of ongoing construction on the west side of the Toby Keith Expressway between I-44 and the Canadian River bridges. It includes realignment of the two-way frontage roads on both sides of I-44 between 24th Street and the 36th Street overpass, and new on and off ramps at NW 24th Street, providing increased access to the I-44/H.E. Bailey Turnpike for the community of Newcastle Motorists can expect to see construction starting later this year.
I-44 is expected to remain open during daytime construction, accommodating at least one lane of traffic in each direction.
Intermittent nighttime closures are expected and will be communicated ahead of time by the OTA.
This is the sixth project of the Toby Keith Expressway (East-to-West Connector) to be awarded for construction.
