OKC Standard

Senator James Lankford has expressed approval for the allocation of federal grants to the Oklahoma Department of Transportation (ODOT). These grants, part of the Rural Surface Transportation Grant Program under the Multimodal Project Discretionary Grant opportunity, will fund two significant projects in Oklahoma.

The MidAmerica Connectivity Project in Pryor, Oklahoma, received $38.7 million. This funding aims to enhance infrastructure at the MidAmerica Industrial Park through roadway reconstruction, widening, new and improved interchanges, and better pedestrian access. The park is one of the largest industrial parks in the country.

Additionally, a $30 million grant was awarded to widen US-259 through Hochatown. This project seeks to address the area's rapid growth as a tourist destination by improving road capacity and safety.

Senator Lankford commented on these developments: “The United States has many critical infrastructure needs, including the vital infrastructure needs in Oklahoma.” He highlighted his efforts to ensure that local concerns are considered in projects like the widening of US-259 and emphasized the importance of growing infrastructure alongside economic opportunities at facilities like MidAmerica.

Tim Gatz, Executive Director of ODOT, also acknowledged the significance of these investments: “Our cooperative investments in transportation infrastructure are vital to improving safety and connecting Oklahoma communities." He thanked Senator Lankford for his leadership and support from Oklahoma's delegation.