Oklahoma Transportation

PROJECT PURPOSE

This program is a series of projects across the state that address rural 2-lane roadways with deficient shoulders to enhance safety.

EVIDENCE

ODOT has experienced cost escalation in bidding projects due to COVID-19?s effect on the local and national economy. Not only is inflation driving up the cost of materials, those materials are even harder to acquire which further compounds the premium contractors have to pay. In addition, labor has been difficult to acquire and maintain which increases labor costs and reduces the amount of projects contractors bid on. This loss of competition results in higher bid prices. Lastly, along with addressing the impacts of COVID-19, as previously mentioned, the additional capacity will significantly impact the state?s ability to recover more quickly.

POPULATION DESCRIPTION

These projects are located in rural Oklahoma in areas. The projects are located statewide near Buffalo, Hastings, Anadarko, Dill City, Arcadia, Stratford, Fittstown, Pawnee, Cushing, Hominy, Pittsburg and Webbers Falls. As with many Oklahoma communities, the pandemic drained revenues from these communities. These contracts will not only improve safety for all motorists, but will bring a contracted workforce that will inject funds in the community from needed services for the employees along with needed materials in the nearby community.

PERFORMANCE MEASURING

ODOT currently has 5,300 miles of rural 2-lane roadways with deficient shoulders. The identified projects would address 44 miles. ODOT has a robust tracking and monitoring system and 2-lane highways are one of the highest priority areas and is part of Oklahoma's traction goal reporting.

ONGOING INVESTMENT AMOUNT

$

ONGOING INVESTMENT DESCRIPTION

None

ONGOING INVESTMENT REQUIRED

One-time project will not need continued funding