The Oklahoma Turnpike Authority says engineering work on the proposed South Extension Turnpike is progressing ahead of schedule, with early property acquisition now underway for portions of the project.
OTA officials said engineers are continuing to refine the planned 19-mile route to reduce impacts on property owners and the environment while improving safety. The agency also said it has met with local communities, including Noble, Purcell, Cleveland County and the City of Norman, to discuss transportation needs and project updates.
OTA Executive Director Joe Echelle said beginning the property acquisition process early is intended to provide certainty for affected landowners.
“We are moving forward in the engineering design phase for the benefit of landowners,” Echelle said. “It’s OTA’s hope that expediting the early acquisition process lessens uncertainty and anxiety for those property owners who know they will have property purchased.”
The authority said construction is planned in two phases. One segment is expected to open by 2032, with the remainder of the South Extension scheduled for completion by 2034.
According to OTA, engineering design is expected to reach 60% completion by the end of the year, with more detailed project maps to be released as design work advances.
