Frequently Asked Questions
Will Memorial Drive go over the Creek Turnpike?
No. Memorial Drive will remain under the Creek Turnpike. The DDI will be constructed within the footprint of the current roadway. The bridge over Memorial Drive will remain and the mainline Creek Turnpike will not be affected.
Why are you building a Diverging Diamond Interchange (DDI)?
The Diverging Diamond Interchange (DDI) is expected to improve traffic flow and improve safety at the interchange, and the DDI can be constructed within the existing interchange footprint without affecting adjacent properties. A DDI can move more traffic than a traditional diamond because the signals do not have to accommodate the left-turn phase. By crossing traffic to the opposite side of the road, left turns can be made without having to yield to oncoming through traffic. The proposed improvements will address the congestion that occurs on the westbound off-ramp and on northbound Memorial Drive accessing the eastbound on-ramp (to US-169).
How will the Creek Turnpike Trail crossing work?
The Creek Turnpike Trail will cross Memorial Drive in the same location as today. Pedestrians and cyclists will cross ramp traffic and Memorial Drive traffic separately, each with its own signal, which offers a benefit over today’s conditions at the right turn islands. The raised islands will allow pedestrians and cyclists a refuge to wait for the green light to cross. Please see "How Will the Trail Work" for more information.
Will ODOT need to purchase any property for this project?
No, the improvements can be constructed within the existing right-of-way, and no additional property is expected to be needed.
Why is access to some businesses changing?
Some of the existing driveways to businesses on Memorial Drive are located very close to the interchange. With the new DDI, traffic on Memorial Drive is expected to move more freely and there will be fewer gaps for turning traffic. “Hooded left” turn bays in the medians will be provided for traffic entering these businesses. However, traffic exiting these businesses will no longer be able to turn left on to Memorial Drive. See "How Will Access Change?" for more information.
What if ODOT needs temporary access for construction or a maintenance or utility easement?
Sometimes ODOT will need temporary access or an easement to construct a driveway or maintain the highway and drainage structures. Other times easements are required for public utilities. Owners will be compensated for temporary right-of-way and for maintenance or utility easements. In these cases, you will maintain ownership of the property. If your property will be affected, an ODOT-authorized agent will contact you.
When is construction scheduled to begin?
Construction is anticipated to begin in Fall of 2022. However, the schedule is dependent on funding and subject to change.
How will the project be built?
During construction, at least one lane of traffic will remain open on all ramps and two lanes of traffic are planned to remain open on Memorial Drive in each direction. Business access will be maintained near the existing driveways. Traffic on the Creek Turnpike is not expected to be significantly affected. A truck detour for certain phases of construction is being investigated and coordinated with the City of Tulsa. The Creek Turnpike Trail will be closed during construction and a detour will be posted.
How long will construction last?
Construction is anticipated to take 18-24 months.
Will there be access to homes and businesses during construction?
Yes, access to homes, businesses, and property adjacent to the project will be maintained during construction.
How does ODOT calculate existing and future traffic numbers?
Traffic counts are taken every two years on state highways. The existing traffic numbers reflect the current condition. The future traffic numbers are projected based on a multiplier developed for the area.
Annual average daily traffic (AADT) is a measure used primarily in transportation engineering. Traditionally, it is the total volume of vehicle traffic of a highway or road for a year divided by 365 days. Therefore, there are days when there is more traffic, but this is an average. AADT is a simple, but useful, measurement of how busy the road is.
How can I get more information?
The best way to have your question answered is to submit a comment on the Submit a Comment page or email to environment@odot.org. If you would like to speak to a project representative, please call (405) 325-3269 and leave a detailed message.