FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 11, 2012
PR# 12-003
RE: January Commission Wrap-Up: I-40 Crosstown efforts, opening applauded; Amtrak celebrates 40 years
Highlights of the Oklahoma Transportation Commission’s Monday, Jan. 9 meeting include the opening of the eastbound lanes of the new I-40 Crosstown and discussion of work remaining; approval of $3 million in engineering contracts and supplements; approval of a county bridge project and reminder Amtrak’s 40th Anniversary exhibit train will be on display this weekend.
Oklahoma Department of Transportation Director Gary Ridley applauded the efforts of employees for finishing the eastbound lanes of the I-40 Crosstown in Oklahoma City ahead of schedule and coordinating the successful opening day events.
As to what is ahead, ODOT Deputy Director/Chief Engineer Gary Evans explained to commissioners the department’s next goal is to open the westbound lanes within the next four to six weeks then start deconstruction of the existing bridge.
“Once the deconstruction is complete, we’ll begin construction on the reconnection of the downtown area. We are planning to have that done by the end of 2014 and appear to be on schedule. We have some $90 million worth of projects left to let on the Expressway so we’ve got a way to go,” Evans said.
Commissioners approved eight engineering contracts and supplements totaling $3 million for Caddo, Grady, Tulsa, Wagoner, Bryan, Cleveland, Oklahoma and Cotton Counties.
Attendees were reminded that Amtrak nationwide is celebrating 40 years of its history by displaying an Exhibit Train at the Santa Fe Depot January 14 and 15 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oklahoma City is one of the few cities around the country chosen as a train stop during the tour. The free event is open to the public and more information on the exhibit can be found at www.Amtrak40th.com.
Additionally, a county bridge project near Bartlesville was awarded to K & R Builders for $576,535.
The eight-member panel, appointed by the governor to oversee the state’s transportation development, awards project contracts for road and bridge construction every month. The panel’s next meeting is scheduled for 10 a.m. Monday, Feb. 6, (to accommodate the governor’s State of the State Address) in the R.A. Ward Transportation Building in Oklahoma City.
Before a project is awarded, ODOT researches, plans and designs the work to be done. Contracts are bid competitively, with the OTC selecting the winning firm. Typically, work begins several weeks or months after contracts are awarded.
Contracts, bid information, the commission’s monthly agenda and project details can be viewed at www.okladot.state.ok.us.
—www.okladot.state.ok.us—
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Posted on
Wed, January 11, 2012
by John Cox