The west interchange of I-44 and I-244 was built in the late 1970s as part of the final segment of I-244 in west Tulsa, which also included upgrading I-44 to interstate standards between the Turner Turnpike and 33rd West Avenue. Prior to the project, I-44 between 33rd West Avenue and the Turner Turnpike had grade-level intersections, including a railroad crossing between this interchange and 33rd West Avenue (now spanned with a bridge). The small (lower) bridge at right carries westbound I-44 traffic to merge with I-244. Eastbound I-44 traffic exits to the right (no bridge) while eastbound I-244 traffic exits to the left and passes, at ground level, through the interchange. The two tall bridges eventually will be part of the Gilcrease Expressway, which will terminate at this interchange upon completion of the loop through north and west Tulsa. The bridges presently connect to 51st Street via a short spur that includes bridges over 49th West Avenue. Although U.S. 66 has been eliminated through Tulsa, signs in the interchange still show the route. Downtown Tulsa is visible above the tall bridges. This photograph was taken October 1985.
