Oklahoma Turnpike Authority Seeks Interstate Designation for Creek and Muskogee Turnpikes
The Oklahoma Turnpike Authority has voted to pursue interstate designations for two turnpikes in eastern Oklahoma. The Creek Turnpike, spanning nearly 33 miles in south Tulsa, is proposed to be designated as Interstate 644. Meanwhile, the Muskogee Turnpike, which stretches 52 miles from Tulsa to Interstate 40 near Webbers Falls, is set to be classified as Interstate 343. Currently, both turnpikes are recognized as state highways. The interstate designation is considered a mark of high quality, according to OTA member Dana Weber. Joe Echelle, the OTA executive director, noted that the turnpikes already meet the criteria for interstate designation. The agency plans to collaborate with the Federal Highway Administration to implement necessary changes, which typically involve minor adjustments such as removing obstructions or repainting road stripes. The designation process will take several months before new signage is installed.