TULSA, Okla. – A new flyover ramp connecting I-44 to Highway 75 is now open, marking a major milestone in a long-awaited project many dubbed “Tulsa Stonehenge.”
The Oklahoma Department of Transportation opened a single westbound lane Thursday, giving drivers a new way to access southbound U.S. 75 and replacing the older cloverleaf ramp.
When did “Tulsa Stonehenge” construction start?
Construction began in January 2021 but paused for an extended stretch between 2023 and 2025, leaving only tall pillars standing over the highway. The pillars, which featured some decorative elements, stood untouched for so long that many drivers forgot why they were built to begin with.
The unusual sight gained a lot of attention after drivers posted photos and videos, dubbing the structure “Tulsa Stonehenge.”
New ramp aims to reduce congestion
The nearly half-mile bridge is designed to ease traffic issues that have plagued the busy interchange for years.
ODOT officials say the previous layout created frequent slowdowns, limited merging space and safety concerns.
“Every day you had frequent slowdowns, congestion, and then short weave-in areas where people were merging,” said TJ Gerlach.
Officials say the new design will improve traffic flow and safety as Tulsa continues to grow.
Drivers welcome progress
For drivers who use the interchange regularly, the opening is a long time coming.
“Progress is great. The quicker they get it done, awesome,” said Tulsa-area driver Bobby Nance. “I think they’re doing pretty great work.”
From ‘Stonehenge’ to solution
Before construction resumed, the project gained attention for its unfinished concrete pillars that stood for years, earning the nickname “Tulsa Stonehenge.”
“We’ve had fun for the last several years with the different nicknames — the Stonehenge, the field goals,” Gerlach said.
The structure became a viral curiosity online as construction paused between 2023 and 2025 due to funding challenges.
What’s next
With the flyover now open, crews will move on to the next phase of the project, including reconnecting 51st Street.
Drivers will also notice an earlier exit point to access the new ramp, with signage in place to guide traffic.
ODOT says the full project is expected to be completed by summer 2028.
Officials also remind drivers the area remains an active work zone and to slow down and watch for workers.
Project cost and timeline
ODOT said construction restarted in April 2025 after securing grant funding to finish what the agency called the most expensive project it has ever undertaken.
The project is still a ways from full completion but TJ Gerlach with ODOT said that opening this ramp will allow crews to continue other parts of the project.
This article was originally published by KOTV (News on 6). You can see the original story here.