In the heart of Edmond, Oklahoma, a major infrastructure project is underway to transform Interstate 35 into a modernized transportation corridor. The ambitious undertaking, set to conclude in the mid-2030s, aims to alleviate traffic congestion and enhance safety along one of the busiest stretches of highway in the region. This comprehensive overhaul includes widening the highway, introducing innovative Texas turnarounds, and constructing a diverging diamond interchange at a critical bottleneck. Over the past two decades, this once-rural area has evolved into a bustling commercial hub, prompting the need for significant upgrades to accommodate increasing traffic volumes and development.

Project Details and Timeline

In the picturesque landscape of central Oklahoma, the transformation of Interstate 35 through Edmond has begun. Traffic along this stretch averages over 72,000 vehicles daily, serving as a vital artery for both residents and travelers. Rick Howland, an engineer with the Oklahoma Department of Transportation, outlined the phased approach to this extensive project. The initial phase focuses on converting frontage roads between Memorial Road and Second Street from two-way to one-way traffic. To facilitate this change, construction teams are currently building Texas turnarounds at key intersections—33rd Street, 15th Street, and Second Street. These specialized turns will allow drivers to switch directions without encountering stop signs or traffic lights, streamlining traffic flow.

By the fall of 2025, these Texas turnarounds are expected to be operational, paving the way for the second phase of the project. During this stage, existing on and off ramps will be reconfigured into more efficient slip ramps, replacing the outdated button hook designs. Following these improvements, the most significant component of the project—the diverging diamond interchange at Waterloo—will commence. This innovative design, first introduced in the U.S. in 2009, offers enhanced safety for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists by reducing conflict points and minimizing wait times. The bridges at Waterloo, originally constructed in 1958, are slated for replacement due to their deteriorating condition and insufficient clearance for modern vehicles.

The total cost estimate for the diverging diamond interchange stands at $44.29 million, with construction expected to span between 550 and 600 days. The project is divided into nine phases to ensure minimal disruption to local traffic. Additionally, the highway will be widened from four to six lanes between Second Street and Waterloo, addressing the notorious rush hour bottlenecks that plague commuters daily. While the Danforth Road interchange remains unscheduled for immediate upgrades, it may be included in future plans.

As Edmond continues to grow, with projections adding 430,000 residents and 320,000 jobs by 2045, this multi-year project is crucial for supporting the region's expanding economic and residential needs. The Landing at Waterloo, a new 110-acre mixed-use development, underscores the importance of enhancing infrastructure to accommodate increased freight and commercial activity.

From a journalist's perspective, this project highlights the ongoing challenge of balancing rapid urban development with sustainable infrastructure improvements. The successful completion of this ambitious plan will not only improve daily commutes but also serve as a model for other cities facing similar growth pressures. By investing in modern transportation solutions, Edmond is positioning itself as a forward-thinking community prepared to meet the demands of the future.