The Caddo Nation's Transportation Department, revived after a 20-year hiatus, is making significant strides in improving infrastructure and safety for tribal members and the broader community. From major road projects to innovative safety initiatives, the department is laying the groundwork for a more connected and secure future.
The Resurrection of a Vital Program
Chairman Bobby Gonzales recounts the department's revival: "Thirty years ago, the Caddo Nation had a transportation department, and they prioritized all these bridges and roads with the BIA, through the red highway program. But for over 20 years, the Caddo Nation did not have a transportation department."
The turning point came when Gonzales met with the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) and their federal highway department representatives at the regional office in Anadarko. "The bureau helped us understand that we could go after our transportation dollars, and that we could '638' those contracts out," Gonzales explains, referring to the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act that allows tribes to assume responsibility for programs previously managed by the federal government.
This initiative began with securing 2% planning dollars, amounting to $421,000, to hire staff and set up a transportation program. From this modest start, the tribe has leveraged its resources impressively. "Over time, we were able to not only capture the 2%, but we were also able to capture $9.8 million overall," Gonzales proudly states. "That allowed us to hire people and to start constructing roads and start working with the county."
The Cummins Road Project: A Testament to Collaboration
One of the department's most significant achievements is the Cummins Road project, a $3.4 million endeavor that highlights the power of inter-tribal cooperation and effective government-to-government relations.
Cummins Road, while a county road, falls within tribal jurisdiction. The Caddo Nation, recognizing its importance, especially given the planned construction of a Child Care Community Center nearby, prioritized its renovation. "We were able to work with the county commissioners and make that a priority," Gonzales explains.
The project became even more impactful when the Wichita Affiliated Tribes approached the Caddo Nation about cost-sharing. "We share the road together," Gonzales notes. "The idea was to cost-share the road. So the Caddo Nation, through federal highways, was able to capture 50% of the money that went toward the road, and the Wichita captured 50% of the money."
This collaborative approach not only made the project financially feasible but also strengthened inter-tribal relations. The road improvement will benefit both tribes, supporting the Caddo Nation's new childcare center and the Wichita tribe's planned hotel and housing developments.
Arrowwood Kakinah: Building Tribal Capacity
In a strategic move that intertwines economic development with infrastructure improvement, the Caddo Nation's Economic Development Authority, through its construction company Arrowwood Kakinah, successfully bid on the Cummins Road project.
"Arrowwood was able to bid on that project, like any other contractor," Gonzales explains. "We were able to secure the award after the second round of bids." This success is particularly significant as it marks Arrowwood's first major road project, demonstrating the company's growing capabilities and potential for future contracts.
The completion of this project has opened new doors for Arrowwood. "Now that the project's complete, we secured 3.4 million. And you know, we can hope now that we secured because we were able to pull this off, and it took a good year to construct road and get all this done. Now we have a line of credit for Arrowwood up to 3.4 million, and our first project was a success," Gonzales proudly states.
Looking to the Future: Expanding Services and Safety Initiatives
Khye Weathers, the Transportation Program Director, envisions a bright future for the department. "I am excited about what the future will bring," Weathers explains. "Tribal transportation planning will aid our Tribal leaders to make informed transportation decisions that will enrich Tribal lands and provide opportunities for current and future generations."
The department is exploring various projects to enhance road safety and community infrastructure. Weathers mentions potential projects such as redoing school parking lots, particularly in areas with high Native American student populations. "Partnering with schools will provide safe roadways for all, as well as protect students and faculty," she says.
Other planned initiatives include:
1. Road Striping and Signage: Improving visibility and navigation on tribal roads.
2. Mowing and Maintenance: Regular upkeep of roadsides, ditches, and culverts.
3. Pothole Filling and Crack Sealing: Proactive maintenance to extend road life.
4. Wayfinding Improvements: Exploring options for cohesive, culturally appropriate signage across tribal lands.
Innovative Safety Programs
The Transportation Department is also working on grant-funded safety initiatives. Weathers shares exciting plans: "We're working on purchasing a driving simulator with the overall goal of improving critical driving skills, enhancing decision making abilities, and increasing overall safety."
The department aims to acquire educational tools such as drunk driving simulation goggles and even explore virtual reality applications for driver education. "Simulation-based training allows you to expose your drivers to various challenging environments. You can record operator reactions and response times and provide after-action reviews that point out performance improvement areas for driver," Weathers explains.
These initiatives reflect a commitment not just to road construction, but to comprehensive transportation safety that engages and educates the community.
A Road to Self-Sufficiency
The revival and expansion of the Caddo Nation's Transportation Department represents more than just improved roads. It's a path toward greater self-sufficiency, job creation, and community development. By leveraging federal funds, fostering inter-tribal cooperation, and building internal capacity through entities like Arrowwood Kakinah, the Caddo Nation is paving the way for a brighter, more connected future.
As the department continues to grow and take on new projects, it stands as a testament to the Caddo Nation's commitment to progress, safety, and the well-being of its people. From major road renovations to innovative safety programs, the Transportation Department is truly driving the Caddo Nation forward.
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