OTA seeks input on new toll road placement

The Journal Record

By: Jeff Elkins

April 29, 2025

Summary:

– OTA will host meetings May 19 in Norman and May 21 in Purcell on the revised South Extension Turnpike route.

– The project’s cost has risen to $8B; officials seek input on minimizing impact to homes, land and natural features.

– A new alignment will be released this fall based on public feedback gathered at the meetings.

NORMAN — The Oklahoma Turnpike Authority has two public meetings set next month for residents to share ideas and concerns about the South Extension Turnpike route planned for the area west of Lake Thunderbird.

The first meeting takes place from 5-7 p.m. Monday, May 19, at Countdown Event Center in Norman. A second meeting is planned at the same time Wednesday, May 21, at the Purcell Multi-Purpose Center.

The South Extension route is part of OTA’s ACCESS Oklahoma, their 15-year plan to expand and improve Oklahoma’s turnpike system. It was originally estimated to cost $5 billion, but three years later, it’s now expected to cost more than $8 billion.

“You had (COVID-19), and you had supply chain issues and 60% inflation on the majority of the pieces of construction,” said Lisa Shearer-Salim, Oklahoma Turnpike Authority spokesperson.

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