Route 66 landmark reopens as state preps for centennial of highway

The Oklahoman

By Steve Lackmeyer

May 13, 2024

BRIDGEPORT — The longest bridge along the iconic Route 66 is open again, marking the start of a countdown to the road’s 2026 centennial celebrations expected to draw thousands of visitors from around the world to Oklahoma. 

The $35 million reconstruction of the U.S. 281/Route 66 bridge over the South Canadian River in Caddo County started in 2022 and opened to traffic on Friday. The bridge, which spans 3,893 feet and was built with 38 bright yellow pony trusses, was built in 1934 and featured in the movie “The Grapes of Wrath.” 

Tim Gatz, director of the Oklahoma Department of Transportation, promised the bridge is one of several Route 66 iconic corridors in the state that will be updated in the months leading up to the 2026 celebrations. 

View the full article: Oklahoman.com