I-44 Construction Begins, Expect Major Delays

OKLAHOMA CITY — A significant construction project on Interstate 44 in southwest Oklahoma City began Monday, and commuters should prepare for major slowdowns. The Oklahoma Department of Transportation (ODOT) announced that eastbound I-44 will be reduced to one lane near Southwest 74th Street, and several on- and off-ramps will be temporarily closed.

“The project will take several weeks to complete,” ODOT officials said.

The work is part of a broader initiative near the Will Rogers World Airport area, where traffic has steadily increased over the years. Crews are rehabilitating the bridge over Southwest 74th Street, aiming to improve safety and traffic flow once the project is finished.

“While we expect the interstate to become a better drive in the long term, drivers need to exercise caution around the construction zone,” officials added.

The project officially started at 7 a.m. Monday, and authorities are urging drivers to expect delays and plan alternate routes when possible.

Strategies to Minimize Traffic Disruption

ODOT crews plan to schedule certain activities during off-peak hours to reduce traffic impact. Still, drivers are likely to experience congestion during the mornings and evenings as work continues over the next several weeks.

“We are working to complete the rehabilitation efficiently, but safety and minimizing disruption remain our priorities,” an ODOT spokesperson said.

Motorists are encouraged to follow posted signs, reduce speed near the work zone, and allow extra travel time. The department also recommends using navigation apps to monitor real-time traffic updates.

Commuters Brace for Multi-Week Adjustments

While some drivers are frustrated by the delays, many are optimistic that the construction will result in smoother traffic in the future.

“It’s inconvenient now, but if it makes commuting easier later, it will be worth the wait,” said one daily driver.

ODOT emphasized that projects like this are necessary to maintain critical infrastructure and ensure long-term safety and efficiency for all travelers in the Oklahoma City area.

Originally reported by Dacoda Wahpekeche in Koco.