Main Street getting new sidewalks from Chrysler to Doolin beginning Feb 15

Blackwell residents soon will be walking to a new tune – along a new sidewalk – thanks to the Oklahoma Department of Transportation.

Last week, the City of Blackwell confirmed an extensive sidewalk project is about to get underway. On Feb. 15, ODOT will begin a $1.9 million project to completely rebuild sidewalks on both sides of Main Street from Chrysler Avenue to Doolin Avenue.

This project comes just a few years after an extensive $2.5 million resurfacing project was done to Main Street, also by ODOT as part of its eight-year plan for Kay County.

The Journal-Tribune first discussed the sidewalk project in September 2020 with Lisa Shearer-Salim, ODOT’s public information manager. The sidewalks will be accessible to those with handicaps and will meet standards set forth by the Americans with Disabilities Act.

“The City of Blackwell is beyond excited for the ODOT sidewalk project,” City Manager Jerry Wieland said.

“This will provide a great face lift for our Main Street while providing great walkways for pedestrians.”

In the early 2000s, the City of Blackwell built ADA-compliant sidewalks along Main Street between Bridge Avenue and Oklahoma Avenue.

The City of Blackwell asks for patience by motorists who regularly travel down Main Street during the project.