Lankford Celebrates Start of I-44 and US Highway 75 Interchange Improvement Project in Tulsa

TULSA, OK — Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today joined officials from the Oklahoma Department of Transportation (ODOT), the City of Tulsa, and Tulsa County to break ground on the next phase of the I-44 and US Highway 75 interchange improvement project, one of the largest and most complex infrastructure undertakings in Oklahoma.

“Today’s groundbreaking is a major milestone for Tulsa and our entire state,” said Lankford. “This interchange has been a priority for decades, and today’s groundbreaking marks the result of tireless collaboration between federal, state, and local partners. I’m proud we secured the federal support needed to get this done. Improving this corridor isn’t just about concrete and steel—it’s about safer roads, better commutes, and a stronger foundation for Tulsa and Oklahoma’s growth.”

“The I-44/US-75 interchange in Tulsa is Oklahoma’s largest single investment in transportation infrastructure ever, totaling $252 million, and will update a very busy interchange along two equally busy corridors,” said ODOT Executive Director, Tim Gatz. “Both I-44 and US-75 carry a significant amount of both local and regional traffic through the Tulsa area. This project will make this interchange function much more efficiently while also improving safety for the traveling public. We appreciate the efforts of our congressional representatives, especially Sen. James Lankford, for helping ODOT to earn two federal grants totaling $95 million to help complete the work. I also want to thank the City of Tulsa, Tulsa County and INCOG for their collaboration.”

“The improvements to the I-44 and US-75 interchange represent a critical investment in Tulsa’s infrastructure and long-term growth,” said Tulsa Mayor Monroe Nichols. “This project will make one of our busiest corridors safer, less congested, and better connected for the people who rely on it every day. We’re proud to work alongside our federal and state partners to strengthen Tulsa’s transportation network and support continued growth across our city.”

“Because of the good work of federal and state officials, this highway intersection will be transformed from Oklahoma’s most dangerous to the safest, maybe in the nation,” said Tulsa City Council Chair Phil Lakin. “We Tulsans are mighty grateful. Thanks to all the Tulsa area drivers for their patience during construction. The finished product will be well worth the wait.” 

“This interchange is a critical connector for the movement of people, goods, and services throughout Tulsa County,” said Tulsa County Commissioner Lonnie Sims. “By moving forward with construction, we’re keeping our promise to build a safer, more efficient transportation system that reduces commute times and supports long-term growth for our region and beyond.”

“The ceremonial groundbreaking for the I-44 and US-75 highway interchange project will complete the construction of long-needed highway improvements at one of the most heavily traveled major highway interchanges in the Tulsa metro area,” said Executive Director of Indian Nations Council of Governance (INCOG), Rich Brierre. “The improvements will relieve traffic congestion experienced daily by motorists, while reducing travel time and saving countless lives.  A project of this magnitude could not be undertaken without the leadership of the Oklahoma Department of Transportation working with our federal partners to secure the necessary funding. Senator Lankford’s leadership, support, and advocacy for addressing real infrastructure needs such as this project and his continued encouragement for working collaboratively to achieve meaningful results is recognized and greatly appreciated.”

Background: 

In 2023, Lankford applauded Oklahoma’s selection for a highly competitive $85 million federal grant from the US Department of Transportation to support the I-44 and US-75 interchange project. The funding, awarded to the Oklahoma Department of Transportation, also supports pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure improvements in the corridor.

Once complete, the project will improve safety, streamline traffic, and enhance pedestrian and bicycle access through one of Oklahoma’s busiest highway interchanges.

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