The Oklahoma Department of Transportation (ODOT) is gearing up for significant changes following the recent interim final rule affecting engineering contracts. During the October 6, 2025, ODOT Commission Meeting, officials announced that 34 engineering contracts awaiting commission awards will be resolicited without a Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) goal. This decision aims to align with the new federal guidelines while ensuring that critical projects continue to move forward.

In addition, the Roosevelt Bridal Project will see an addendum to its request for qualifications, also removing the DBE goal. ODOT is committed to quickly rebidding and resoliciting contracts to maintain momentum on essential infrastructure work, despite the challenges posed by the ongoing federal government shutdown. While current operations remain largely unaffected, future construction projects with federal funding may face delays due to uncertainty in appropriations.

ODOT officials highlighted the pressing need for infrastructure improvements, estimating that the state's highway system requires approximately $27 billion to reach acceptable standards. The department is actively monitoring funding trends, particularly as the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act approaches its expiration in federal fiscal 2026. The Highway Trust Fund currently supports only 50-60% of outlays, raising concerns about future funding sustainability.

As the meeting concluded, ODOT emphasized the importance of public safety, particularly with the upcoming OU Texas game weekend. Travelers are urged to remain vigilant in construction zones and adhere to speed limits. The department also reported on its successful seat belt campaign, which reached over a million viewers, aiming to improve Oklahoma's seat belt usage rates, currently lagging behind the national average.

With ongoing discussions about transportation funding and safety initiatives, ODOT remains focused on addressing the state's infrastructure needs while adapting to new federal regulations and economic challenges.