Oklahoma Names Roadway After Late Country Music Star Toby Keith

The new east-west connector turnpike will be called the Toby Keith Expressway.

Mar. 18, 2026 at 1:06am

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The Oklahoma Senate has passed a resolution to name a new $3 billion, 28-mile east-west connector turnpike the Toby Keith Expressway, honoring the late country music star who was a longtime resident of Norman, Oklahoma. Keith, who died in 2024 after a battle with cancer, was known for hits like "Should've Been a Cowboy," "Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue," and "American Soldier." The measure recognizes Keith's musical accomplishments as well as his patriotism and support for the U.S. military.

Why it matters

Toby Keith was one of Oklahoma's most famous and beloved country music stars, known for his patriotic anthems and support of the U.S. military. Naming a major new turnpike after him is a way for the state to permanently honor his legacy and contributions.

The details

The new Toby Keith Expressway will extend from Interstate 44 east to I-35 near Indian Hills Road, continuing east and north to I-40 at the Kickapoo Turnpike. Construction on the $3 billion, 28-mile project is set to begin soon, with an estimated completion date of 2033. The measure recognizing Keith passed the state Senate and House and does not require the governor's signature.

  • The Oklahoma Senate passed the resolution to name the roadway on February 26, 2026.
  • Toby Keith died in 2024 after a battle with cancer.

The players

Toby Keith

A late country music star from Oklahoma who was known for hits like "Should've Been a Cowboy," "Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue," and "American Soldier." He sold over 40 million albums, had over 20 number one singles, and was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame.

Lisa Standridge

A Republican state senator from Norman, Oklahoma who championed the measure to name the new turnpike after Toby Keith.

Lisa Shearer-Salim

A spokesperson for the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority who provided details on the $3 billion, 28-mile east-west connector project.

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What they’re saying

“Toby Keith sang about loving his country and he lived it day in and day out.”

— Lisa Standridge, State Senator (Oklahoma Voice)

What’s next

The $3 billion, 28-mile Toby Keith Expressway project is set to begin construction soon, with an estimated completion date of 2033.

The takeaway

Toby Keith's enduring legacy as one of Oklahoma's most famous and patriotic country music stars will be cemented with the naming of a major new turnpike in his honor, recognizing both his musical accomplishments and his unwavering support for the U.S. military.