The final lane of the Interstate 44 Arkansas River bridge opened in mid February, which concluded a 4.5-year project to rebuild one of Tulsa's worst traffic spots. Traffic flow is excellent at the site, and the Arkansas River has returned to its normal appearance, including some vegetation growing on the sandbar in an area that recently had heavy machinery over the past two years. The lights have been installed on the bridge, which makes it safer to drive at night. The bridge project is the first of what likely will be a busy time ahead for I-44 through Tulsa. Earlier this week, a project was announced that will widen I-44 to six lanes between the bridge and the I-244 interchange in east Tulsa. No contracts have been awarded, but there likely will be work under way within the next few years. Photograph taken July 8, 1984.
