The new I-40 Crosstown Expressway being built south of the existing highway stretches four and a half miles from May Avenue to I-235.  It will incorporate 10 lanes and establish a separate six-lane boulevard into downtown where the existing interstate highway sits today.  This boulevard is designed to allow easier access to the highway and enhance visitors’ first impression of Oklahoma City.

Originally built in 1965, the I-40 Crosstown currently carries approximately 120,000 vehicles per day, nearly 50,000 over the intended capacity of 76,000. The new highway, designed to be a combination of ground-level and semi-depressed roadway, will carry up to 173,000 vehicles per day and replace the elevated thoroughfare presently in place.

Several amenities will be added to the area to enhance the surrounding neighborhoods.  These include sound walls complementing architectural aspects of Little Flower Church, a pedestrian bridge, and a new park.

The existing Crosstown will continue to be used while the new highway is being built, resulting in fewer construction delays for Interstate motorists.

The new interstate is expected to open to traffic in 2012.