ODOT Reveals Proposed Renovation of I-44 Interchange in Catoosa

Many people say the I-44 to Highway 412 junction needs to be overhauled and the Oklahoma Department of Transportation agrees. ODOT held a meeting to show people the two different options.

OPTION ONE:

In option one, the option ODOT preferred, I-44 would straighten three lanes in each direction.

ODOT says it will allow for increased speed and will add a two-lane road from I-44 east to SH-66 NB exit right.

The exit will be across the top of I-44.

That will reconnect the 193 to 66 north.

Option 1 was the preferred alternative because I-44 WB was straight, I-44’s design speed was 75 mph, a right-hand exit from I-44 EB to SH-66 NB was desired, and a 193rd East Avenue connection to SH-66 NB was included.

OPTION TWO:

Option two will be similar to the current layout.

I-44 WB curves with a speed limit of 65mph.

I-44 EB is a three-lane straight going at 75mph.

There will be one exit from I-44 east to SH-66 north.

It won’t reconnect 193 to 66.

Option 2 is not the preferred alternative because I-44 WB is curved, I-44 WB’s design speed is 65 mph, left-hand exit from I-44 EB to SH-66 NB is undesirable, and 193rd East Avenue connection to SH-66 NB not included.

ODOT says they are accepting feedback until January 13, 2023.

“The problem with our preferred option is, it’s a bit more expensive. So we just want to make sure people are okay with that. Or, if they prefer we do a slightly cheaper option and their feelings on the whole exchange project,” TJ Gerlach, Oklahoma Department of Transportation.

ODOT says the project will start in 2025. You can read the open, public document by clicking here.