PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT MEETING
US-81 Bypass in Chickasha, OK

SUBJECT:

     The Oklahoma Department of Transportation (ODOT), in cooperation with the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), is proposing to construct a controlled-access 4-lane divided western bypass of Chickasha. The proposed bypass will extend from the curve north of the US 81/SH 19 West junction to the US 81/US 62 intersection. The purpose of the project is to reduce travel time for Chickasha through-traffic, reduce congestion, and improve safety along US 81 through the Chickasha Central Business District.

     In 2007, ODOT completed a corridor study for US 81 with public input and recommended a bypass alignment. ODOT began the Environmental Assessment and design for this proposed bypass alignment in 2011 and the alignment was presented to the public again at a meeting held on October 4, 2011. Based upon public comments received from that meeting and additional evaluation, ODOT considered other alignment alternatives and developed three alignment alternatives for consideration. In addition, ODOT completed an economic study to evaluate the improvements to the existing US 81 versus the construction of the bypass. The bypass alignment alternatives and the results of the economic study were presented at a public meeting held on March 14, 2013. Based upon public comments and stakeholder comments received from the March 2013 meeting, ODOT has selected a Preferred Alternative. The Preferred Alternative is modified slightly from the alignment alternatives previously presented, particularly in terms of the proposed interchange locations; therefore, ODOT will present the Preferred Alternative to the public at an Open House, to be held on July 24, 2013, from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., at the Canadian Valley Technology Center, Helen Ward Seminar Center, Room B, 1401 Michigan, Chickasha. The purpose for the Open House is to communicate the changes which have been made to the alignment alternatives presented at the March 14, 2013 public meeting, and to solicit public input relevant to the interchange alternatives which have been developed subsequent to the March 14th meeting.

     If you require special accommodations for the open house, please direct your request to Frank Roesler, III, ODOT Public Involvement Officer, at 200 NE 21st Street, Oklahoma City, OK 73105, (405) 521-2390, or froesler@odot.org at least three (3) working days in advance of the meeting date.