Cherokee Nation Becomes First Tribe To Enter Self-Governance Transportation Program

Green Country can now expect more road repairs in the near future. The Cherokee Nation said that’s their promise after the tribe entered into a self-governance program with the U.S. Department of Transportation.

The Cherokee Nation is the first tribe to ever have a self-governance program. 

"The difference now is we will be more in the driver's seat in terms of crafting federal policy on how tribes get funds," said Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr.

He said the new program gives the tribe the ability to plan and oversee road construction and projects on their land without federal permission and oversight.

"What we want to do is tailor our own projects to meet the needs locally - and who best to know the needs than local people?" Hoskin told News on 6. 

Cherokee Nation Transportation Director Michael Lynn said the tribe wants to better prioritize rural roads once the program starts.

"We've got about 3,500 to 4,000 roads in our inventory across our reservation and having those roads in our inventory makes them eligible for those federal funds," Lynn said. "So, we can improve the county road system and primarily the roads our citizens drive on within the reservation."

Hoskin said the Cherokee Nation had to show audits for three years, including transportation management information, financial stability and transportation management and capability. Hosking also said the tribe plans to go the extra mile and stretch Oklahoman's dollars even further.

"If you are an Oklahoman and you want more bang for your tax dollar, then you should be happy with this news, because it is good for everyone," Hoskin added. 

The Cherokee Nation said the new program will also help fund their public transit system.