The Oklahoma Turnpike Authority announced a new long-term plan that may affect traffic in the Purcell area.

Oklahoma Transportation Secretary Tim Gatz announced at last Tuesday’s meeting the Kickapoo Turnpike may be expanded to the south to possibly connect with I-35 in the Purcell area.

One of the main reasons for the project, that is in the 15-year plan, would be for providing a route for traffic to avoid Oklahoma City completely.

That would provide movement for those travelers who don’t have a need to go through Moore or Oklahoma City.

Purcell Mayor Ted Cox and City Manager Dale Bunn were invited to attend the meeting and will be providing input as to where the interchange may be, Bunn said.

“The interchange will be in the Purcell area. The project would be to cross the Canadian River to provide a fast and safe diversion of truck traffic around the metro up to I-40 and I-44,” Bunn said.

Cox said his recollection of the project is that it will be somewhere in the Purcell area.