Oklahoma Transportation

PROJECT PURPOSE

This project will add additional capacity on I-35 which is a nationwide freight corridor that runs through the heart of Oklahoma. This project will increase capacity from Norman, OK south 7 miles to Ladd Road in McClain County. Currently, the facility carries over 70,000 vehicles per day and is in one of the fastest growing counties in Oklahoma. Because the volume of traffic is nearing the maximum capacity of the facility, traveling I-35 is becoming more undependable and even minor incidents can cause miles of backup.

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 will impact over 70,000 drivers a day as they go between their homes in areas around Newcastle, Purcell, and Pauls Valley and travel to economic centers for work and recreation. This will also help alleviate the effects of congestion on the trucking industry through the state. With these sections of highway experiencing roughly 2% growth in traffic annually, immediate attention is needed to ensure freight and commuters can avoid the high user cost associated with congestion.

PERFORMANCE MEASURING

This section of I-35 is a major driver of economic ability for the surrounding area, the State of Oklahoma and the Nation and ensuring a reliable infrastructure increases opportunities for business development. Performance will be measured by increasing travel time reliability, reducing delays and ensuring a higher level of service than existing conditions.

ONGOING INVESTMENT AMOUNT

$

ONGOING INVESTMENT DESCRIPTION

None

ONGOING INVESTMENT REQUIRED

One-time project will not need continued funding