Project Impact. Accommodating more than 65,000 vehicles per day, the project itself not only improved access and traffic flow immensely, it also beautified the area around the interchange. This momentous accomplishment was even greater because, at the time when construction was going on, material prices in the construction industry had skyrocketed and were fluctuating greatly(7).
Features & Design Context. Decorative additions to these three bridges along US-77 near Edmond, Oklahoma treat pedestrians and motorists to a stunning city gateway that showcases the Art Deco and Native American influences.
Techniques & Requirements.
The two bridges over Memorial Road use a muted brown stain to affect the parapet and a beige stain on the beams.
The form liner patterns for concrete parapets and pier caps are further accentuated with beige weaves and square red ornaments. Kelley Bridge transposes that color scheme and accentuates the parapets and pier caps with brown weaves and turquoise ornaments.
Dynamic shields atop the pier hammerheads depict the emblem from the Oklahoma state flag set against a colorful background of local ledge stone. This indigenous-stone pattern also fills each wing wall.
Pedestrians using the sidewalk can stop under the bridges to see geometric ribbons stained in a terracotta color weave along each slope wall.
At Memorial Road, the slope walls fan out from under the bridge, making a dramatic entranceway to the gateway bridges of the City of Edmond.
“The Broadway Extension Interchange at Memorial Road is not merely a road project to improve traffic, but an innovative approach to improve the first impression of the City of Edmond. We look forward to seeing continued positive impacts on this community for years to come.” Patrice Douglas, Mayor of Edmond(8).
“CFL’s creativity flows from the information gathered into something tangible. Their craft is defined by “problem-solving”, making many components and considerations fit into the given parameters (time, space and budget). To be able to work within those boundaries, and do it well, is a true talent” Debby Williams, Director (Oklahoma Art in Public Places)
“Through our relationship with Creative Form Liners Inc., we have been able to actively consider expanding the use of decorative form liners on our transportation system with relative ease.”Gary Ridley, Secretary of Transportation (Oklahoma Department of Transportation).
“CFL has met and exceeded my every expectation.” Casey Shell, P. E. Chief Engineer (Oklahoma Department of Transportation)
