Honoring Toby Keith: The Oklahoma House Introduces the ACCESS Oklahoma Long-Range Plan
The Oklahoma House has introduced a new turnpike project called the ACCESS Oklahoma Long-Range Plan, which aims to enhance transportation infrastructure in the Oklahoma City metro area. The project includes building new interchanges, widening existing turnpikes, updating bridges and pavement, and adding three new routes to complete the Outer Loop and provide an I-35 reliever route. A resolution has been proposed to name the new turnpike the Toby Keith Expressway in honor of the late country music star, Toby Keith, who was known for his patriotism and generosity. The resolution has passed the Oklahoma House and is awaiting approval from the Oklahoma Senate to move forward.
If approved, the Toby Keith Expressway will stretch from Interstate 44 East to Interstate 35 near Indian Hills Road, continuing East and North to Interstate 40 at Interstate 335/Kickapoo Turnpike. This initiative serves as a tribute to Toby Keith, who passed away on February 5, 2024, and celebrates his legacy as an Oklahoma legend. The Oklahoma Senate has the opportunity to honor Keith's contributions by making the Toby Keith Expressway a reality.