Toby Keith is a country legend, and now Oklahoma is honoring him as one.
Back in January, the Oklahoma state legislature proposed renaming several roadways to honor Keith's legacy. Although this never ended up happening, they've still made sure it will be celebrated.
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As reported by Oklahoma Voice, the "Toby Keith Expressway" will now begin construction. The Expressway is located on Interstate 44, east of the I-35. It will continue east and north to Kickapoo Turnpike on the I-40. This comes after the Oklahoma Senate passed House Concurrent Resolution 1019.
Several politicians have weighed in on the decision to honor Toby Keith. State representative Jason Blair of the 53rd district said, "Toby Keith was more than a country music star. He was a proud Oklahoman who never forgot where he came from."
He finished, "Naming this turnpike in his honor is a fitting way to recognize a man who represented our state with ultimate patriotism and generosity."
Senator Lisa Standridge similarly said, "Over the course of his legendary career, Toby Keith never forgot where he came from or what he stood for."
Her statement continued, "His Oklahoma roots shaped him, and his love of America defined him. He was a country music superstar and a true patriot. I can think of no better way to honor his memory than by naming this future stretch of Norman turnpike in his honor, creating a lasting tribute to the legacy he leaves behind."
Toby Keith Was Also Inducted Into the Cowboy Museum Hall of Fame
It was just last month that Keith was inducted into the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum's Hall of Fame. This was alongside the late country legend Kenny Rogers, and actor Ed Harris.
Toby Keith's daughter, Krystal Keith, shared her gratitude to the museum, as reported by Whiskey Riff. "This honor reflects the life my dad lived and the values he stood for. We're grateful to the National Country & Western Heritage Museum for recognizing his place in the history and how his career served and celebrated the heritage of the country and Western way of life."
The museum also commented on their inductees, "Each has helped carry forward the stories, values and traditions of the American West in meaningful and enduring ways. Their work... ensures that the spirit of the West continues to inspire future generations."
Toby Keith is certainly a country legend. We hope these celebrations of his legacy will make sure he is remembered for generations.
