Expect More Detours On Two Tulsa Highways

NewsOn6.com

TULSA, OK -- Expect a slower commute to work starting this week in Tulsa.  Two major widening projects kicked off on Monday on two different highways in the city. 

More orange construction barrels are popping up on I-44 and U.S. Highway 169. 

Monday's commute should be okay though, because Monday, contractors are just laying the groundwork for the massive projects. 

The Oklahoma Department of Transportation is pumping millions of dollars into both projects. 

2/25/2010 Related story: More Orange Construction Barrels Coming To A Tulsa Highway Near You

At I-44, construction crews will start the second phase of widening the interstate between Riverside Drive and Yale. 

The interstate highway will grow from four lanes to six lanes and the bridge over Harvard will be replaced. 

This project is expected to take about two years to complete. 

As work gets underway, expect delays on Harvard Avenue and access roads. ODOT says a smart work zone system is in place so you'll be able to see real-time information about any headaches along the way.

3/19/2009 Related story: Construction Technology Alerts Tulsa Drivers

"There are going to be delays along Harvard, the access roads and I44 with this project, but we are trying to set up to keep traffic moving as best we can through that area," said Kenna Mitchell, ODOT spokesperson. 

Meanwhile, U.S. Highway 169 is growing from four lanes to six lanes from I-244 to 56^th Street North. 

Most of the work will take place overnight and on the weekends, but ODOT says two lanes will be closed in each direction during the day. 

The U.S. Highway 169 bridge over Pine Street will also be replaced during the $16 million project. 

You can expect delays for the next year when you travel on that stretch of highway. 

Like I-44 construction project, ODOT will have reminder signs in place to help you manage the commute during the construction zone.