Sooner State News

The City of Moore, in collaboration with the Oklahoma Department of Transportation (ODOT) and Congressman Tom Cole, has initiated the SH-37/S.E. 4th St. Bridge Construction Project with a groundbreaking event. This project, which amounts to nearly $30 million, aims to improve the infrastructure and safety of Moore, Oklahoma, a region plagued by frequent congestion and safety concerns.

Congressman Tom Cole, who is Chairman of the House Appropriations Committee, joined this ceremonial event alongside local and state officials. The construction work has been assigned to Allen Contracting, following its approval during the Oklahoma Transportation Commission meeting in November. The project includes constructing a new BNSF railroad bridge over SH-37/S.E. 4th St., with plans to lower the highway to form an underpass. This separation is expected to minimize risks of accidents and alleviate existing traffic congestion issues.

Expressing his support for the project, Congressman Cole stated, “I am so proud to have helped secure the funding for the SH-37 Railroad Underpass project in Moore. This project is critical to helping keep Oklahomans safe by reducing the number of collisions between vehicles, trains, and cyclists, and I look forward to seeing the finished underpass.”

Moore Mayor Mark Hamm remarked that this transformation would be beneficial not only to Moore’s residents but also to commuters, emergency responders, and visitors: “The new bridge will alleviate train-related blockages, making it safer for everyone traveling through this busy corridor.”

Significant expectations have been set for this project to address congestion and enhance safety and transit in Moore. The separation between railroad and highway is pivotal to prevent collisions and reduce the disruptions caused by the 36 trains traveling through daily. The design includes a bike and pedestrian bridge to improve safety for non-motorized travelers. The community also anticipates reduced traffic congestion, smoother emergency response, and enhanced access to local retail, services, and the hospital.

Director of the Oklahoma Department of Transportation, Tim Gatz, added, "This project is a pivotal infrastructure investment in the future of Moore and the surrounding region. We are not only enhancing safety and reducing congestion, but we’re also supporting economic growth and improving quality of life for residents, commuters and visitors alike. This is a critical step toward ensuring a safer, more efficient transportation network for all."

The initiative is a cooperative endeavor between the City of Moore, ODOT, BNSF Railway, and it is partially funded by the Raise Grant and Congressional Discretionary Spending. Completion of this project is anticipated by the summer of 2026.

A ceremonial groundbreaking took place at SH-37/S.E. 4th St., attended by ODOT Executive Director Tim Gatz, Congressman Tom Cole, Moore Mayor Mark Hamm, Councilmember Melissa Hunt, City Manager Brooks Mitchell, Councilmember Louie Williams, and Councilmember Kathy Griffith.