Turner Turnpike bridge reopens over Route 66 in Wellston
Yearlong reconstruction restores traffic, supports future expansion
After more than a year of construction, the I-44/Turner Turnpike bridge over Route 66 in Wellston has officially reopened, marking the completion of a major infrastructure project led by the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority.
The project replaced the original bridge structure, which was more than 70 years old, and expanded the crossing to six lanes, positioning it to support future widening of the Turner Turnpike. The upgrade restores a critical transportation link for eastern Oklahoma while improving safety, traffic flow, and long-term freight mobility along one of the state’s most heavily traveled corridors.
Local leaders highlight impact on businesses and residents
State Sen. Grant Green, R-Wellston, welcomed the reopening and said the return of traffic brings immediate relief to residents and small businesses that were affected by the prolonged closure.
“Local shops and restaurants are the backbone of Wellston, and reopening this bridge makes it clear that our town is open for business,” Green said.
Businesses located near the bridge — including Butcher BBQ Stand and a nearby OnCue travel stop — saw reduced customer traffic during construction as drivers detoured around the closure. Green said the new bridge will help restore economic activity while encouraging travelers to stop and explore the community.
Part of long-term transportation and energy planning
The $48 million reconstruction is part of OTA’s broader ACCESS Plan, a 15-year statewide modernization initiative that includes widening the entire Turner Turnpike to six lanes. The improvements are designed to accommodate long-term growth in passenger traffic, commercial trucking, and energy-related freight moving across Oklahoma.
Infrastructure upgrades along I-44 play a key role in supporting Oklahoma’s energy economy, as the corridor serves oil and gas operations, agricultural transport, and industrial supply chains across the region. Improved traffic flow also reduces congestion-related fuel consumption and emissions, aligning with broader efficiency goals.
Route 66 centennial adds historic significance
The bridge reopening comes just ahead of the Route 66 centennial, an event expected to draw travelers from across the country. Green said the timing could not be better for Wellston and other communities that rely on tourism tied to the historic highway.
“Although the road closure presented challenges for the community, this upgraded infrastructure will make it easier than ever for Oklahomans and Route 66 enthusiasts alike to stop and explore Wellston,” he said.