By John Dobberstein, Editor
OKLAHOMA CITY — A bill sponsored by State Rep. Mark Tedford (R-Jenks) authorizing construction of a new bridge across the Arkansas River near Bixby passed the House and now moves to the Senate for further consideration.
“I appreciate my colleagues in the House for supporting this legislation,” Tedford said in a statement Tuesday. “As our communities continue to grow, it’s important we take a thoughtful approach to infrastructure planning. This bill allows us to move forward with a project that better reflects the needs of the region today.”
The Sentinel broke the news recently that House Bill 2123 would update state law related to the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority by removing authorization for a previously proposed bridge and instead allowing for the construction of a new bridge in a more suitable location.
The measure specifically authorizes a new bridge crossing the Arkansas River in the vicinity of Bixby to help improve connectivity and accommodate continued growth in the area.
Tedford said the measure is part of broader efforts to ensure Oklahoma’s transportation infrastructure keeps pace with population growth and economic development.
The bill removes authorization for the OTA to build a previously discussed toll bridge over the river between Delaware Avenue and Memorial Drive and authorize the OTA to build one, “in the vicinity of Bixby.”
Tedford told the Sentinel there was a recent meeting concerning the project between local, state and federal officials, “where there seems to be a window of opportunity to put this project together if we could get the authorization amended.” If the legislation becomes law, Tedford said OTA will start their planning and surveying process for the project.
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