Major Bypass Information along Oklahoma Route 66
Some information courtesy of Jerry Mcclanahan - check out his most up-to-date information at McJerry66.com!
Ottawa County - Ribbon Road
LOCATION: Original Route 66 just southwest of Miami, Oklahoma
The Ribbon Road (or Sidewalk Highway) is a unique section of Route 66 that is only nine feet wide. Unfortunately, efforts to preserve this section of pavement were only partially successful and two of the three miles of the main stretch are currently being torn out and repaved. It is currently entirely closed. You can still stop at the granite marker that stands at the road’s western edge that reconnects with this alignment (E 140 Rd). We currently have no ETA on completion of this project.
WESTBOUND: If traveling the original alignment south of Steve Owens Blvd in Miami, take Main Street south across the river. When you reach E 120 Rd, instead of continuing south turn right (west) and join the newer alignment to head south towards Afton.
EASTBOUND: When you reach the Ribbon Road historic marker at E 140 Rd, you can stop. The one mile section of Ribbon Road to the east here MAY be open to traffic, but it is not a through road. Travel with caution and obey current signage; you’ll have to return to this intersection to continue north.
Rogers County - Catoosa Interchange
LOCATION: I-44/OK-66 interchange in Catoosa
Long referred to as “Dysfunction Junction” this interchange around Exit 240, where modern State Highway 66 merges onto Interstate 44 in Catoosa, is undergoing a massive project to improve traffic flow. If you aren’t following the original alignment of Historic Route 66 down Cherokee Street and 193rd E Ave, you’ll need to be mindful of this construction.
WESTBOUND: To avoid the construction entirely, follow the 1926-1957 alignment through town (Ford Street to Cherokee to 193rd E Ave)
EASTBOUND: If you’re coming into Catoosa from original Route 66 (11th Street), stay on 193rd E Ave northbound into town and go under I-44. Take the 1926-1957 alignment by turning right on Cherokee and following the map below. If you’re coming into Catoosa on I-44, exit on 193rd E Ave and turn left at the light, which will put you on the same path.
