Oklahoma’s largest infrastructure undertaking is officially underway as ground has been broken on what locals affectionately call “Tulsa’s Stonehenge” project. The $252 million venture aims to transform the outdated interchange between I-44 and U.S. 75, addressing critical safety concerns while dramatically improving traffic flow in one of the city’s most congested areas.
Transformative interchange project launches in Tulsa
Construction crews began work on April 7, 2025, marking the start of Oklahoma’s most ambitious transportation infrastructure project to date. The massive overhaul targets the notoriously problematic intersection of Interstate 44 and U.S. Highway 75, which has earned colorful nicknames like “Tulsa’s Stonehenge” and “Traffic Henge” from local residents due to its distinctive abandoned bridge piers standing vacant for years.
The Oklahoma Department of Transportation (ODOT) has awarded the contract to Tulsa-based Manhattan Road & Bridge, entrusting the local firm with executing what represents the most expensive contract in ODOT’s history. This comprehensive project combines three previously separate phases into a single unified effort, streamlining the construction timeline and potentially reducing overall disruption.
Interestingly, the project’s first phase was completed in 2023 at a cost of $90 million, which included constructing piers for future flyover ramps. This forward-thinking approach was implemented to minimize traffic disruptions once funding became available for subsequent phases.
The project’s funding structure demonstrates effective leveraging of federal infrastructure investments, with $95 million coming from two key federal grants under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act:
- An $85 million Mega Grant designed for complex projects difficult to fund through other means
- A $10 million RAISE Grant targeting surface transportation projects with significant local impact
- The remaining funding from state transportation allocations
- Additional support from regional planning organizations
Key improvements planned for Tulsa’s transportation network
The interchange project extends far beyond simply replacing the existing structure. The comprehensive transportation enhancement will address multiple connectivity and capacity issues throughout the corridor. While the central focus remains completing the reconfiguration of the I-44 and U.S. 75 interchange, several additional components will significantly improve regional mobility.
The U.S. 75 corridor will undergo substantial widening between 71st Street and 41st Street, increasing capacity along this vital north-south artery. Additionally, the project includes a complete replacement of the U.S. 75 interchange at 61st Street, enhancing access to commercial and residential areas.
Local connectivity will improve with the construction of a new frontage road connecting 61st Street and Skelly Drive, while the extension of 51st Street under U.S. 75 will create valuable east-west throughways. Pedestrian accessibility has not been overlooked, as plans include a dedicated pedestrian bridge spanning railroad tracks along 51st Street near Elwood Avenue.
| Project Component | Location | Primary Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Interchange Reconfiguration | I-44 and U.S. 75 | Improved Traffic Flow and Safety |
| Highway Widening | U.S. 75 (71st to 41st Streets) | Increased Capacity |
| Interchange Replacement | U.S. 75 at 61st Street | Enhanced Access |
| Pedestrian Bridge | 51st Street near Elwood Avenue | Non-Motorized Connectivity |
Timeline and broader infrastructure vision
Weather permitting, the Oklahoma Department of Transportation anticipates completion of the entire project by summer 2028. This three-year construction timeline reflects the complexity and scale of the undertaking. Transportation officials have emphasized that careful planning has gone into minimizing disruptions for daily commuters during the construction period.
The “Stonehenge” project represents just one piece of Oklahoma’s broader infrastructure vision. It serves as the centerpiece of a comprehensive upgrade to Tulsa’s I-44 Corridor, with a future project already planned to complete the widening of I-44 between the I-44/I-244 Western Split and the Arkansas River.
The ambitious interchange overhaul exists within ODOT’s recently unveiled 2025-2032 Eight-Year Construction Work Plan, which allocates an impressive $8.6 billion toward 1,647 road and bridge projects throughout Oklahoma. This long-range planning demonstrates the state’s commitment to systematically addressing infrastructure needs across urban and rural communities alike.
Tulsa residents can expect to see significant construction activity in the coming months as crews begin transforming the iconic “Stonehenge” piers into functional transportation infrastructure. While temporary detours and lane adjustments will be necessary, officials emphasize that the long-term benefits will far outweigh short-term inconveniences.
-
1>Initial site preparation and traffic pattern adjustments (April-June 2025)
2>Foundation work and structural support installation (July-December 2025)
3>Main roadway construction and bridge deck installation (2026-2027)
4>Final paving, lighting, signage and safety features (Early 2028)
5>Project completion and full operation (Summer 2028)
When completed, the transformed interchange will stand as a testament to Oklahoma’s investment in modern, efficient transportation infrastructure that serves both local communities and the broader regional economy. The “Tulsa Stonehenge” will finally fulfill its intended purpose, shifting from local landmark to functional cornerstone of the city’s transportation network.
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