OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) – Many drivers are frustrated with years of detours at what was a busy bridge.
The Midwest Boulevard Bridge over Crutcho Creek has been shut down for over four years.
“Most people that I talk to around here say that it feels like ten years, but regardless, four years is long enough,” said Glynn Abraham, a nearby resident.
Abraham says the closure has felt endless.
“Luckily for me, I know the roads, so I can prepare for it, but it adds on. I know five minutes doesn’t seem like much, but when it’s all the time, you know, and I’m not even one that lives in the close area, I can’t even imagine for the families that live right there,” said Abraham.
The original bridge was built in 1967 and was closed in 2021 because an inspection revealed structural issues.
The bridge itself, however, was not removed until last October, but then an issue with a gas line caused further delays.
According to a Facebook post from the City of Oklahoma City, the bridge was set to open this Summer, but that didn’t happen.
“It makes you feel like when you live out here, you’re forgotten about, you don’t matter, you’re not part of the city,” said Abraham.
News 4 reached out to city officials for an update, and we were told the year-long reconstruction is almost done.
“We certainly understand the frustration and appreciate all the patience as we near completion of this vital connection,” said a city spokesperson.
That patience, however, is running thin for those in Eastern Oklahoma County.
“That five minutes, 10 minutes, 15 minutes to someone else might not mean much, but that’s missing a kiss goodnight, that’s missing dinner with your family,” said Abraham.
The City did not provide an exact date for when the bridge will open, only that it’s expected to happen soon.
We will keep you updated.
