Improvements planned for turnpike stop in Oklahoma

STROUD, Okla. – Changes are coming to a frequent pit stop used by travellers driving between Tulsa and Oklahoma City.

Officials say the Stroud service area on the Turner Turnpike will be renovated and become a westbound-only stop over the next two to three years. Oklahoma Turnpike Authority spokesman Jack Damrill tells the Tulsa World that the current service area has become congested with large trucks and that its design isn’t safe for drivers.

Damrill says a new building will be constructed for westbound traffic, and a new service area for eastbound traffic will be built near the Interstate 44 exit at Chandler. Both areas will have expanded parking for large trucks, a gas station and a fast-food restaurant.

Officials say about 14,300 vehicles travel on the Turner Turnpike through Stroud each day.

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Information from: Tulsa World, http://www.tulsaworld.com