May 18, 2013

Weather

Fair

88°
Conditions at North Texas Regional Airport, TX
Save Email Print Bookmark and Share
A A
Reporter: Allison Harris Email

Construction and infrastructure entices restaurants to come to Durant

DURANT, OKLAHOMA -- Oklahoma Department of Transportation is building an exit ramp at University Boulevard off Highway 75 southbound.

"I think it's an access issue that the city is interested in and believes it'll help with development for their community," Brent Frank with ODOT said.

Construction signs go up Tuesday. Work will continue for the next 140 days.

"Anytime you have any changes like this, there's going to be some construction delays and changes like that," Jeffery Hammock said.

Hammock is President of Vision Bank that sits just east of this exit ramp.

He says while the construction will be bothersome, the end result is enhanced infrastructure and more economic growth for Durant.

"There's been discussion about more development once this off-ramp comes into play, once it's open, that there may be more development coming into town," Hammock said.

That's likely what'll happen once construction is complete.

The owner of this land tells News 12 exclusively that he plans to develop it, building eight to nine restaurants, adding to Durant's economic growth.

In a phone conversation with local businessman Allen Wheeler, he wouldn't reveal which restaurants he's bringing to town, but did say they'll be able to begin construction once this exit ramp project is finished.

"I think that's very exciting," Lauren Miller said.

Miller is a hair stylist at Trends, right off the University Boulevard exit.

"Durant's been growing a lot over the years and to have more restaurants here would be great," Miller said.

To business people like Hammock and Miller, more restaurants means more potential customers in their area, and for that they'll put up with the construction.


Comments are posted from viewers like you and do not always reflect the views of this station.
powered by Disqus

Station Headlines

Bonham housing units demolished

Posted: 05/17/13 - BONHAM, TX-Several housing units in Bonham have been demolished by the Texoma Council of Governments after years of disrepair and residents said it's about time. Read More

Bryan County law enforcement officers pay tribute to the fallen

Posted: 05/16/13 - DURANT, OK -- They risk their lives every day to protect us, so this week Americans pause to recognize the efforts and sacrifice of law enforcement officers. Thursday, one Texoma community honored those who have lost their lives in the line of duty, as part of Peace Officers Memorial Day. Read More

Video Comments