State Chamber Applauds “Driving Forward OK” Transportation Investment

Plan will expand and modernize turnpike system at crucial time

Oklahoma City (October 29, 2015) – The State Chamber of Oklahoma is proud to support the nearly $1-Billion turnpike expansion and improvement plan announced today by Governor Mary Fallin. The Driving Forward OK plan would issue bonds paid back through turnpike tolls for six projects around the state designed to reduce congestion and spur economic development.

“This is a bold plan that makes a critical investment in our state’s transportation infrastructure without negatively impacting the state’s budget picture,” said State Chamber President and CEO Fred Morgan. “These projects will modernize our transportation network to get people and goods where they need to go faster while also increasing the safety of these key arteries.”

According to the Turnpike Authority, planning will start immediately and construction could begin as early as next fall.

“Governor Fallin, Transportation Secretary Gary Ridley and Oklahoma Turnpike Authority officials should be commended for their work in creating this forward-thinking vision during difficult financial times for the state,” Morgan said. “This kind of leadership is going to create jobs far beyond just the construction projects themselves as a better transportation system leads to increased commerce.

For more information go to www.DrivingForwardOK.com.