Photo credit: The City of Oklahoma City (NW Expressway bridge rendering)
A 121-foot pedestrian bridge is nearing completion across Oklahoma City’s Northwest Expressway, connecting the Lake Hefner and Lake Overholser Trails.
The bridge is aimed at helping pedestrians, cyclists, and runners make the journey across what has become known as a hazardous intersection for non-drivers. The six-lane drive allows for vehicles to make a quick trip through the city. However, the street does not allow for pedestrians to cross easily.
The $5.3 million bridge project is funded through a combined effort in the voter-approved 2007 bond program and 2017 bond program. Oklahoma City voters approved the 13 bond propositions and two sales tax initiatives branded as Better Streets, Safer City in 2017, allowing for the advancement of the project. The Better Streets, Safer City program also allocated funds for bike lanes and trail improvements along Wilshire Boulevard, just west of the upcoming pedestrian overpass.
The bridge has been designed to reflect the style of classic cars from earlier generations, as well as the history of nearby airports, Wiley Post and Clarence E. Page.
The project has included water line relocation and excavation. Reinforced steel will help sustain the prefabricated bridge. Ramps, guardrails, lighting, signage and more will be included to allow for ease of use.
The project is expected to be completed this fall.
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