OKC Boulevard Meeting

OKLAHOMA
CITY, OK-- Hundreds gathered at the Bricktown Events Center Monday night to
discuss the future of Oklahoma City Boulevard.

"The
alternatives tonight provide a set of options, ones that don't propose a
bridge," said Eric Wenger, Director of Public Works for the City of
Oklahoma City.

The
boulevard replaces the old I-40.  City officials drafted new plans for the
boulevard after many concerned citizens expressed opposition toward previously
proposed bridges on Western Avenue, Classen Boulevard, and Reno Avenue.

"The
city of Oklahoma City and ODOT heard the community loud and clear at the last
meeting," Wenger explained.

City
officials introduced four plans that keep most of Oklahoma City Boulevard close
to the ground and eliminates most bridges.  One plan includes a
roundabout, another includes an at-grade intersection on Western Avenue in
place of a bridge.  The last two plans still include bridges on Western
Avenue.

 "I
think the citizens are by and large against that option," said Jerry Hayes,
a concerned citizen.

Hayes
says he wants to keep all of Oklahoma City Boulevard stay on the ground.  He
believes eliminating bridges will encourage more growth downtown.

 "If
you're up high over something, you're not going to want to stop and check out
what might be down below," said Hayes.

Jerry
Parrot agrees with Hayes, he believes getting rid of overpasses will help bring
more business to the area.

 "Businesses
should be allowed to flourish, and encouraged to flourish," said Parrot.

City
officials say they will take public comments on Oklahoma City Boulevard until
December 17.  Anyone with concerns can submit comments online at okc.gov or via e-mail at mcoordinator@odot.org.  

Posted: Monday, December 3 2012, 09:40 PM CST