Bill requiring OTA studies, report on proposed Norman turnpike passes
OKLAHOMA CITY (KOKH) — A bill regarding the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority (OTA) and the planned turnpike through Norman passed on Wednesday.
Senate Bill 1610, which was amended by floor substitute, would require the OTA to do a study and make a report consisting of certain information regarding the proposed construction of the South Extension Turnpike, Outer Loop-East-West Connector Turnpike, or any part of the turnpike that would pass through any portion of Norman.
SB1610 specifies the report would have to contain:
- Factors considered when determining the route for the turnpike or extensions indicated in the bill
- 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
- Specific impacts and effects that the planned route will have on the businesses, citizens and private and public property along the planned route
- Whether any alternate routes were considered by OTA and the factors considered as to why the alternate routes were not chosen for the turnpike or extensions
- Any other factors relevant to the decision of the location of the turnpike or extensions mentioned above considered by OTA.
If signed into law, OTA would be required to give two copies of the completed study and report to the Governor, President Pro Tempore of the Senate, and Speaker of the House of Representatives at least one year prior to issuing bonds for the construction of the indicated turnpike or extensions.
Additionally, SB1610 would codify that after getting the report, the Legislature has the authority to modify the authorization for construction or the location of the turnpike.
SB1610 was amended on the House floor and will be returned to the Senate for second consideration before being sent to the Governor's desk.
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