Interim four-way stop to take effect at SH-66 and Banner Rd. Feb. 19

Motorists should be alert to big changes ahead on SH-66 at Banner Rd. in Canadian County by mid-February.

Eastbound and westbound SH-66 will be narrowed to one lane in each direction at Banner Rd. by 4 p.m. Feb. 19 as part of an interim intersection modification in partnership with Canadian County in an effort to increase safety. Work will begin on the interim changes Monday, Feb. 17.

Motorists traveling Banner Rd. already are required to stop and yield before entering SH-66. By Feb. 19, motorists also must stop on SH-66 at the intersection once the four-way stop goes into effect. As traffic continues to increase in this area, it is vital that motorists partner with ODOT and Canadian County to ensure safety. This means putting away distractions, slowing down as drivers approach the new four-way intersection and driving defensively while motorists adjust to the change in conditions. 

Upcoming interim changes at the intersection include several safety features to provide more tools to drivers:

• This will make the current two-way stop into a four-way stop at the intersection;
• SH-66 will be narrowed to one lane in each direction at Banner Rd. through 2020;
• The intersection will be a four-way stop with oversized stop signs and red overhead lights; and
• Advance warning signs of the stop ahead will be placed on SH-66.

This interim safety solution is designed to prepare motorists to slow down ahead of a more permanent intersection modification scheduled for late 2020. ODOT and Canadian County agreed in December to design a four-way traffic signal for the intersection, but have continued to look at all design options that will provide a long-lasting safety solution with improved maintenance options including different pavement designs such as a roundabout and additional tools such as rumble strips for increased safety.

Drivers are advised to plan ahead and expect delays as traffic adjusts to the new configuration. Even with numerous safety devices at the intersection, motorists ultimately are the deciding factor in highway safety and are advised to use caution in the area.