Federal lawsuit challenges Oklahoma turnpike project over environmental concerns

The Oklahoma Turnpike Authority’s East-West Connector project faces a federal lawsuit as opponents call for additional environmental reviews and permitting before construction continues.

KOCO

Patrick Talbot

Jul 1, 2026

The Oklahoma Turnpike Authority’s East-West Connector project is under legal scrutiny as a federal lawsuit seeks to halt construction, citing environmental review and permitting concerns.

“We’re really excited to report that we’re making some great progress that’s even exceeding our expectations as far as how quickly we’ve been able to move and start giving these homeowners along the new corridor path some certainty,” said Lisa Shearer-Salim, OTA spokesperson.

The proposed 30-mile connector would begin at I-44 and State Highway 37, crossing the South Canadian River east to I-35. OTA has already initiated early property acquisitions for landowners expected to be affected by the project.

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