Team selected to deliver new US-70 Roosevelt Bridge over Lake Texoma
Oklahoma’s Transportation Commission has awarded a more than $400 million contract to a firm for the design and replacement of the US-70 Roosevelt Bridge over Lake Texoma.
On Monday, the Oklahoma Transportation Commission approved continuing Zachry Construction and Traylor Bros., Inc.’s contract at a value of $408 million for the final design and construction phases. ODOT will continue design development with the selected team in the coming months.
“The next step will be for the selected team to deliver final design and construction services for the bridge replacement project. The department will continue to work side by side with them to lay the groundwork for such a big undertaking,” said ODOT Director of Design Justin Hernandez.
Construction is expected to begin later this summer, with completion anticipated in the fall of 2029. The bridge was badly damaged by spring floods last year and was temporarily closed forcing residents to make a 35-mile long detour.
Competitive bidding used for selection
The Commission stated that the team was determined through a competitive procurement process using a unique “modified progressive design-build” project delivery method, which allows ODOT to contract with multiple design-build teams to collaborate closely with ODOT personnel during design and construction planning. This approach incentivizes design-build teams to streamline delivery and optimize the design, budget and construction timeline. It is the first time this approach has been used in Oklahoma by ODOT.
In March, ODOT received proposals from three highly qualified teams and evaluated each based on project approach, technical solutions, schedule and project cost.
What the project will include
The US-70 Roosevelt Bridge replacement project will include:
- Construction of a new four lane bridge across Lake Texoma
- Improvements to roadway approaches along US-70
- Enhanced safety features, such as full shoulders and lighting
- Coordination with local communities and regional partners throughout construction
The selected team brings extensive experience delivering large-scale bridge and infrastructure projects across the United States, including projects using unique delivery methods. Their portfolio includes projects focused on improving transportation while minimizing impacts on surrounding communities. ODOT and its partners are planning a future community open house to introduce the team and talk about plans and the effect on the area, more information to come.
The US-70 Roosevelt Bridge, opened to traffic in 1945, is a critical transportation link connecting southern Oklahoma and northern Texas. The replacement project will modernize the aging structure while supporting continued travel, tourism and economic activity along the Lake Texoma corridor. The bridge currently carries 8,500 vehicles per day.