WELLSTON – Sen. Grant Green, R-Wellston, welcomed the reopening of the I-44/Turner Turnpike bridge over Route 66 following a yearlong reconstruction project by the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority.
The project replaced the more than 70-year-old Wellston bridge and expanded it to six lanes to accommodate the future expansion of the Turner Turnpike.
Green said the reopening brings welcome relief to residents and the owners of local businesses, including Butcher BBQ Stand and a nearby OnCue, which were impacted by the extended road closure.
“Local shops and restaurants are the backbone of Wellston, and reopening this bridge makes it clear that our town is open for business,” Green said. “Although the road closure presented challenges for the community, this upgraded infrastructure will make it easier than ever for Oklahomans and Route 66 enthusiasts alike to stop and explore Wellston.”
The $48 million project was one of many included in the OTA’s 15-year ACCESS plan, which also includes widening the entire Turner Turnpike to six lanes.
“This project was a major undertaking, and I’m grateful for everyone who helped make it happen,” Green said. “It’s great to see the bridge looking better than ever as travel through Wellston returns to normal just in time for the Route 66 centennial.”
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For more information, contact: Sen. Grant Green at (405) 521-5547 or email [email protected]
