Major Remodel Of Will Rogers Turnpike's Vinita Service Plaza Underway

Demolition work has begun at the Vinita Service Plaza on the Will Rogers Turnpike. Both gas stations as well as the buildings on either side of the McDonalds will come down as part of a $14.6 million renovation project.

The bridge structure and arch are all that will remain.

Construction on the new and improved plaza is expected to be complete in the spring of 2014.

When it's finished -- visitors will enjoy an updated McDonalds, a new Subway restaurant, and larger gas stations on either side.

6/4/2013 Related Story: Vinita Service Plaza On Will Rogers Turnpike Now Closed

The Oklahoma Turnpike Authority says the highway will remain open for traffic.

Timberlake Construction says the project will require some lane closures.

Because there is no other rest stop in the stretch of turnpike between Tulsa and Joplin, Missouri, drivers will have to exit Interstate 44 for gas, food and restrooms.