The Oklahoma Department of Transportation (ODOT) has started construction on a replacement for the US-70 Roosevelt Bridge over Lake Texoma. The department expects the replacement project to cost more than $408 million and reach completion in fall 2029. A $124 million federal grant will cover about 30% of the project’s estimated cost. The Federal Highway Administration provided the grant through its Bridge Investment Program.
The new four-lane crossing will replace the existing Roosevelt Bridge, which has served the region for 80 years. Plans include wider shoulders, bridge lighting, a pedestrian path, and upgrades to the adjoining sections of US-70. ODOT will keep the existing bridge open until crews complete the new structure.
The bridge connects Bryan and Marshall counties and carries more than 11,000 vehicles daily. It also supports regional travel between southern Oklahoma, northern Texas, and southern Arkansas. The replacement will provide additional space for vehicles and improve safety for drivers and pedestrians.
Zachry Construction and Traylor Bros. will design and build the replacement. ODOT selected the companies through a competitive procurement process. The department will use a modified progressive design-build model for the first time on an Oklahoma project. Under this model, ODOT works with design-build teams during early design, budgeting, and construction planning.
Site preparation and engineering work have already started. ODOT is also working with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to address environmental requirements around Lake Texoma. Construction will proceed alongside the active US-70 corridor through 2029.