04/26/2026
I know the East-West Connector is being pushed like it’s already a done deal. It’s not. And before the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority can truly move forward, there are legal steps they have to follow.
Tribal consultation & sacred sites
If this project involves federal permits (like river or water crossings reviewed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers), it triggers protections under Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act. That means consultation with Tribes and review of impacts to burial grounds and cultural sites must happen before approval.
Environmental protections aren’t optional
Before major land disturbance, contractors are required to follow stormwater rules through the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality. That includes permits, erosion controls like silt fences, and plans to prevent polluted runoff.
If those safeguards aren’t in place, it can be a violation.
And yes — there are real concerns
A March 2026 state audit raised red flags about how the OTA has handled contractor selection, including limited competition. That doesn’t automatically stop the project, but it does raise serious questions about transparency and accountability with public money.
So what can we do? Stay aware. Speak up. Document everything.
If you see something that doesn’t look right:
Take photos or video (include date and location)
Report environmental issues to ODEQ: (405) 702-6100
Contact Gentner Drummond’s office: (405) 521-3921
We shouldn’t have to be watchdogs—but right now, we are. Oklahoma is worth fighting for, and remember that nothing is impossible! David was able to take down Goliath - so have faith that we can and will defeat the giant we're facing!
Stay aware. Stay grounded. And don’t let this move forward quietly. Contact people, groups, organizations, and influencers.. Share facts about what's going on with national news, magazines, activists - anyone that you can think of. Speak out against the individuals and businesses that are profiting from this project, and spread facts far and wide. It WILL make a difference!
https://youtu.be/ji4kixXK9lE?si=IJn7Bp5rDLUrZ1Yj!
89 likes, 36 comments. "Audit finds Oklahoma Turnpike Authority left ‘thin paper trail’ when hiring contractors, other confl"
