Kilpatrick Turnpike, Lake Hefner Fly-Over Bridge To Reopen Ahead Of Schedule

Construction crews have completed work on the bridge connecting the Kilpatrick Turnpike to southbound Lake Hefner Parkway, allowing it to reopen 36 days ahead of schedule.

The fly-over bridge will reopen to traffic Saturday, December 29.

The Oklahoma Turnpike Authority (OTA) shut down the bridge November 5 to continue work on a widening project. Crews had to close the bridge to rebuild a pier support that was in the way of a new lane.

11/5/2012 Related Story: Crews Close Bridge From Turnpike To Lake Hefner Parkway

10/24/2012 Related Story: Construction To Close Major Bridge On Kilpatrick Turnpike

The bridge is one of the busiest interchanges in the city. The project was scheduled to last 90 days, but because crews finished early, the contractor is expected to receive bonuses.

The OTA says crews will periodically close the bridge during overnight hours for painting.

The Kilpatrick expansion project will add a lane in each direction of the turnpike to accommodate growing traffic. Construction is scheduled to be completed this spring.