New Transportation commissioner welcomed; $89 million in projects awarded

Highlights of the Oklahoma Transportation Commission’s May 5, meeting include welcoming the new District 3 Commissioner, updating commissioners on the status of the Heartland Flyer, receiving a national beautification award and approving construction projects on US-59 near Sallisaw and on the Duncan Bypass.

Oklahoma Department of Transportation Executive Director Tim Gatz and commissioners welcomed newly-appointed District 3 Commissioner Lisa Billy. Billy has a distinguished legislative career in the Oklahoma Legislature as well as the Chickasaw Tribal Legislature and will represent the 11 district counties of Southcentral Oklahoma. Commissioner Billy was appointed by Speaker Hilbert and replaces T.W. Shannon who vacated the position in April.

Gatz updated commissioners on the current activities surrounding Amtrak’s Heartland Flyer, passenger train service currently operating in partnership with Texas. However, the Texas legislature has not made a final decision on whether or not to continue that funding. The Flyer resumed operation in 1999 after having been out of service for 20 years.

New Transportation commissioner welcomed; $89 million in projects awarded - Oklahoma Energy Today