FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 12, 2012
PR# 12-004
Re: Plan now for further traffic changes on the new I-40 Crosstown drive
While Oklahoma Department of Transportation crews work to complete the westbound segment and make adjustments to the eastbound lanes of the I-40 Crosstown over the next few weeks, drivers are urged to take this time to learn how the new round of changes will impact their routes. Additionally, transportation officials warn that while work on the new alignment had minimal impacts to traffic until now, drivers share more of the roadway now with construction crews and need to use caution.
Important work continues alongside the new highway lanes. Over the next few months, drivers will notice crews working to complete lighting and to replace construction directional signs with permanent green directional signs. A screen wall planned as a visual barrier for the Riverside neighborhood properties will be built from Walker to Shartel along the right of way line. The wall will look like stone to compliment the architecture of nearby buildings along the corridor.
With the January 5 opening of the eastbound I-40 lanes, drivers continue to learn the route adjustments for traveling to downtown Oklahoma City. ODOT recognizes these adjustments can be frustrating for drivers and is working expeditiously to address concerns. Transportation officials ask drivers to remain patient as they adjust driving habits and locate new routes.
Those going to the downtown area or to Bricktown should use the Shields Blvd. exit when possible. The under-used facility is one of the larger corridors that can accommodate higher traffic volumes encountered for special events.
As a reminder, ramps currently open for eastbound I-40 Crosstown include:
· Off-ramp to Agnew Ave.
· On and off-ramps at Pennsylvania Ave.
· On and off-ramps at Western Ave.
· On and off-ramps at Shields Blvd.
Other closures for Crosstown construction near downtown OKC include:
Robinson Ave. is closed between S.W. 7th St. and S.W. 11th St. Detour is Walker Ave.
Even though traffic is driving on the new eastbound I-40 lanes, the entire Crosstown corridor is still a construction work zone through 2014. When the highway is in its final configuration, traffic will operate more smoothly than it does under construction. Drivers are asked to be alert to workers and equipment, to remain flexible to traffic changes and to allow extra travel time in locating new routes. To help alleviate confusion or concern about the new Crosstown route and ramps, drivers can view a map of the corridor at www.okladot.state.ok.us/newsmedia/i40-okc/eastbound.php
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Posted on
Thu, January 12, 2012
by John Cox