Q: How will the bridge work affect lake levels & flood operations?
A: The bridge work should not affect flood operations or lake levels. Tenkiller Lake’s authorized conservation pool is between elevation 594.5 and 632. We currently have no intention of deviating from the authorized conservation pool or keeping lake levels below 632.
Q: How long will the project take?
A: We estimate the project will take approximately two and a half years based upon the scope of work. This factors in normal expected weather impacts based upon historical regional climate.
Q: Why are you doing this repair?
The bridge is beyond its service design life and routine inspections from our Bridge Safety Program identified deficiencies that necessitated replacement.
Q: How will this closure affect traffic?
Motorists should anticipate increased travel times. The Oklahoma Department of Transportation has approved a Detour Route for motorists.
Q: Why is this project being done before Fort Gibson Bridge, which is clearly in worse shape?
Fort Gibson is two and a half times larger, requires more funding and time to replace. We anticipate the Fort Gibson bridge replacement project to commence in the near future.
Q: How much will this cost?
The Tulsa District awarded a $28.7 million contract to demolish and replace the bridge.