Road Construction Project: 61st and Sheridan

The reconstruction of the 61st and Sheridan intersection is scheduled to begin in January.

This will be the final piece of the water line and street work along 61st from Sheridan to Mingo. As part of that work, the 48-inch line will be completely replaced, the streets redone and all three intersections rebuilt.

In the 1970’s a 48-inch concrete pressure pipe was installed along 61st Street, from Sheridan to Mingo. This waterline is critical during the summer months, June to October. It is not only used to fill the Sheridan Tanks at 61st and Sheridan, but it also distributes water throughout the pipe network in south Tulsa.

Without this line in service, citizens would experience low water pressure and would inhibit our ability to provide fire flows in areas of south Tulsa. During high demands, we would be unable to fill the Sheridan Tanks. This could result in rationing during extended, high-demand periods.

There was a break in the line in December 2012 and it flooded 61st Street as well as adjacent buildings. After extensive testing, it was determined that the waterline needed to be replaced. Plans were put together and work began February 2014 to replace portions of the line from Sheridan to Mingo at the worst spots before the high demand season.

The work can only occur during times of low demand, which is between October and May.

The city understands this construction has been challenging for the many small business in the area, as well as motorists and nearby residents. The bid for the 61st and Sheridan project provided several options to help speed up work. The winning bid will shorten the original estimated time significantly, cutting project to only 140 days, by doing some work at night.

The city also met with local businesses to discuss other ways to minimize the impact, including better signage and lighting. The project is expected to be complete by May 2017.

If you have questions or concerns, please contact District 7 City Councilor, Anna America at [email protected], or at 918-596-1927.