Studies
Environmental Studies
Environmental Summary
The OTA studied the area at the I-40 and Toby Keith Expressway interchange. Here is what they found:
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Right-of-Way Acquisition: No new right-of-way will be needed for this project.
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Historic and Archaeological Resources: Experts walked the area and dug small holes to look for archaeological items. They also examined all of the buildings and structures 45 years of age and older to evaluate their historic significance. No significant historic or archaeological resources were identified. The Oklahoma State Historic Preservation Office and Oklahoma Archaeological Survey have reviewed and concurred with these findings.
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Aquatic Resources: Biologists mapped all of the streams, ponds, and wetlands in the area. New culverts will be constructed at stream crossings, and some existing culverts will be extended. These crossings will require a Section 404 Clean Water Act permit from the US Army Corps of Engineers.
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Protected Species: The project may affect habitat for the bald eagle and the monarch butterfly. A bald eagle survey will be completed prior to construction and any active nests will be avoided. Certain activities such as fueling and storage of materials will be restricted within 100 feet of streams. No work will occur on bridges or culverts if they are being used for nesting by migratory birds. The US Fish and Wildlife Service has agreed with these protection measures.
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Hazardous Materials: There are no known hazardous materials sites in the project area. If workers find contaminated water or soils during construction, they will stop work and follow procedures to protect the health and safety of people and the environment.
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Farmland: The project will not affect any farmland.
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Noise: A noise study was completed according to FHWA and ODOT policy. Noise impacts were identified at one home. A noise wall was considered, but the wall did not meet cost effectiveness criteria established in the ODOT Noise Policy and will not be included in the project.
