Lane reduction occurring on Porter Avenue for pipeline connection work

Portions of Porter Avenue – between Mosier and Main Street – have been reduced to one lane in each direction to accommodate for construction of new storm drainage along Porter Avenue, as part of the voter-approved Porter Avenue Streetscape 2019 Bond Project. Generally, lane reductions will be limited to two blocks at a time in the affected area as eight storm pipeline connections are made. Locations of these lane reductions will change as the project progresses. Drivers are encouraged to pay close attention to construction signage as lane closures may change overnight at times.  Every effort will be made to have all lanes open for OU home games and other special events. Staff expects this phase of the project to be substantially complete by late November. Questions can be directed to 405.366.5453.

History of the Project

In April 2019, citizens of Norman voted in favor of a Bond Issue to finance the local share of 19 transportation improvement projects. Two of the 19 bond projects are the Porter Avenue and Acres Street Intersection Bond Project, and the Porter Avenue Streetscape Bond Project. The Porter Avenue Streetscape Bond Project consists of design and construction of streetscape elements along the Porter Avenue corridor between Robinson Avenue on the north and Alameda Street on the south.  The total construction cost for the project is approximately $5.1 million. Of that, approximately $2.8 million will be paid by federal grant. The remaining $2.3 million will be paid for through the City of Noman 2019 Bond Program.

The Oklahoma Department of Transportation conducted a bid opening on October 20, 2022, for the Porter Avenue Streetscape 2019 Bond Project.  The low bidder was SAC Services, Inc. of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.  ODOT awarded the project on November 7, 2022.  Project work has and will continue to occur intermittently due to supply chain challenges and accommodations in regard to community convenience and weather elements. It is expected to be fully completed by Spring 2024.

The Oklahoma Department of Transportation is administering the construction of this project, with the assistance of Atkins and cooperation of the City of Norman.

Proposed improvements include:

  • New sidewalks
  • Driveway consolidation or elimination (access management)
  • Decorative roadway and pedestrian lighting
  • Landscaping
  • New curb and gutter
  • New Decorative Traffic Signals
  • Pedestrian safety improvements