Sen. Standridge wins approval for bill requiring extensive studies on turnpike before bonds can be issued

OKLAHOMA CITY – A bill to slow down a planned turnpike impacting thousands of Norman residents is on its way to the House of Representatives.  Senate Bill 1610, by Sen. Rob Standridge, R-Norman, was approved by the chamber Thursday.  The House principal author is Rep. Danny Sterling, R-Tecumseh.

The South Extension Turnpike, which would cost nearly $1 billion and run almost 30 miles, would impact hundreds of homes, businesses and ranches, a wildlife sanctuary, unique geological formations and more.

“I’m chair of the Senate Transportation Committee and I was taken by surprise by this, just as the public was,” Standridge said.  “My legislation would put the brakes on this project so that we can get more information before anything proceeds.”

SB 1610 would require the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority (OTA) to prepare a report concerning the proposed construction of the South Extension Turnpike and provide that report to the President Pro Tempore of the Senate, Speaker of the House, and the governor at least 180 days prior to issuing bonds for construction.  Among the information the study would include:

• Whether the proposed route was determined to be the most effective regarding the flow of traffic and what factors were considered in making that determination.
• The specific impact and effect that the planned route would have on businesses, citizens, and private and public property.
• Whether any alternate routes were considered by OTA and the factors considered as to why the alternative routes were not chosen.
• Any other factors relevant to the decision of the location of the South Extension Turnpike by OTA.

SB 1610 also states that once the report is received, the Legislature may modify the authorization or location of the South Extension Turnpike.

“At this juncture, information is critical,” Standridge said.  “I look forward to working with our counterparts in the House to get this measure to Governor Stitt for his approval.”

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For more information, contact:  Sen. Rob Standridge at 405-521-5535 or email Rob.Standridge@oksenate.gov.