By John Dobberstein, Editor
After more than a year of construction, drivers in the Tulsa metro will get their first taste of a “diverging diamond” interchange Monday.
A new traffic configuration begins Monday at the Creek Turnpike interchange with Memorial Drive in South Tulsa — also known as the U.S.-169/SH-364/Creek Turnpike and US-64/Memorial Dr. interchange.
The contractor will begin moving traffic into the final configuration on Memorial Dr. at 9 a.m. Monday and this will be completed by 3 p.m.
Here is what to expect, the Oklahoma Department of Transportation says:
- Memorial Dr. traffic will be in its contraflow DDI alignment, with continued lane closures through June. Drivers should use caution as they enter the reconfigured interchange for the first few times.
- Motorists need to pay extra attention to all traffic control devices, including the new traffic signals, pavement markings and signage as well as follow the speed limit.
- Motorists are urged to use caution as traffic adjusts to the new configuration.
- Drivers on US-169 and Creek Turnpike ramps as well as Memorial Dr. may experience intermittent closures as work continues.
- The area remains an active construction zone through June.
Drivers should begin thinking about how to safely navigate the DDI, ODOT says. Here are several safety tips to consider before driving through the new interchange:
- As you approach the interchange, drive for the conditions by following the speed limit. Pay attention to traffic control devices and pavement markings.
- As you enter the interchange, follow the signs, signals and pavement markings to cross through the intersection at the first set of traffic lights. Traffic will appear as if on a one-way street as it crosses under the bridge.
- Vehicles continuing straight on Memorial Dr. after crossing bridge simply proceed through a second set of traffic lights.
- Left turns onto the highway or turnpike are freer flowing, meaning vehicles do not have to wait for opposing traffic to access the ramp.
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