Construction To Begin To Replace Aging Route 66 Bridge Near Bristow

Jennifer Broaddus, News On 6

TULSA, Oklahoma -- The Oklahoma Department of Transportation will soon close lanes along the Turner Turnpike near Bristow to replace an aging Route 66 bridge.

It was smooth sailing for driver's along The Turner Turnpike Sunday but soon the area will be filled heavy equipment and construction crews.

"Becco Contractors will be out there really mobilizing some equipment and making sure that signs are in place and be getting everything in order to start construction," said Brenda Perry, ODOT spokesperson.

Perry said crews will start work for a new bridge on Route 66. The $9 million project is expected to take about nine months to complete. Although the bridge seems to be in pretty good shape from up top, ODOT said it needs to be replaced.

"This bridge is structurally deficient one and one that we have had on our radar screen for a long time," Perry said. "A lot of the time, the bridge can seem in good condition but it's either outdated design or is in need of some repair."

Even though ODOT said this bridge is structurally deficient, drivers will continue to cross until construction is complete.

Crews will build the new bridge on the west side of the current one and then move the highway to meet up with it.

Drivers said they want to see more projects like this.

"I think Oklahoma could do better on our roads. A lot of the surrounding states have a lot smoother roads and they take a lot better care of them," said driver Cody Russel.

ODOT said they're working on it, but it's not going to happen overnight.

"We've had the distinction of having a lot of structurally deficient bridges, and so it's been something that the department has been working toward," Perry said.