City Council Approves Bridge on the Future Oklahoma City Boulevard

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK-- Oklahoma City Council approved a recommendation Tuesday to construct a bridge over Western Avenue as part of the Oklahoma City Boulevard project.

"It's a good example of compromise between those that are looking after the urban interest and those that are looking after the suburban and traveler interest," said Mick Cornett, Mayor of Oklahoma City.

Eric Wenger, Director of Public Works for the City of Oklahoma City most of the boulevard will be on the ground.  He says the bridge on Western Avenue will help move traffic between the north side and south side of Oklahoma City.  

The bridge stirs some concern from Oklahoma City residents part of the group known as "Friends for a Better Boulevard."  Many members of the group, like Bob Kemper want to see all of Oklahoma City Boulevard on the ground to encourage more development downtown.

"The overwhelming majority of people in Oklahoma City, want this boulevard to return to some sort of grid," said Kemper.

City Council passed the recommendation with a 7-2 vote.  Councilman Ed Shadid of Ward 2 voted against the recommendation, citing more studies need to be done to explore the impact of a bridge on the new boulevard.

"I think it's premature, to make a decision over what's the best route," said Shadid.

The Boulevard, which will be built by ODOT, will be a main entryway into Oklahoma City and include on-street parking, 15-foot sidewalks and landscaping.

The project is expected to be constructed in phases beginning in 2014. 
City Council Approves Bridge on the Future Oklahoma City Boulevard

Posted: Tuesday, January 8 2013, 09:49 PM CST