City of Durant
DURANT – The City of Durant and the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma are proud to announce the renaming of Big Lots Boulevard to Chahta Way, a meaningful change that honors the history, heritage and enduring presence of the Choctaw people in southeastern Oklahoma.
The roadway, located adjacent to the Choctaw Nation Headquarters and connecting to the former Big Lots Distribution Center property, will now bear a name that reflects the Choctaw identity and strong partnership between the City of Durant and the Choctaw Nation.
the name Chahta, the Choctaw word for the Choctaw people, serves as a tribute to the Nation’s rich cultural legacy and its continued role as a driving force in the region’s growth and prosperity.
“This renaming represents more than a change to a street sign,” said Martin Tucker, mayor of the City of Durant. “It is a recognition of the Choctaw Nation’s profound impact on our community and an opportunity to honor the history and culture that are deeply woven into the fabric of Durant. We are proud to celebrate this partnership and the shared future we continue to build together.”
Durant City Manager Pam Polk emphasized the broader significance of the roadway’s new name.
“Renamin this street to Chahta Way is important to the City of Durant, the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, the State of Oklahoma and our Nation as the name brings remembrance to the ways of the Chahta people – past, present and future,” Polk said.
Choctaw Nation Chief Gary Batton expressed appreciation for the collaboration and significance of the roadway’s new name.
“We are honored by the City of Durant’s partnership in changing the road name, which now reflects the heritage and ongoing presence of the Choctaw people in southeastern Oklahoma,” Batton said. “This roadway, which connects to the former Big Lots Distribution Center, is also situated directly in front of the Choctaw Nation Headquarters. Since the Nation acquired the Big Lots property, the facility now represents an important connection to our future growth and continued investment in the region. Renaming the road Chahta Way acknowledges the rich history of the Choctaw people and our deep ties to this community.”
The roadway’s new name also reflects the continued investment and economic development occurring in Durant and throughout the Choctaw Nation. The former Big Lots Distribution Center property represents significant opportunities for future growth, job creation and regional development, making the corridor and important gateway to the Nation’s headquarters and its future initiatives.
The City of Durant and the Choctaw Nation share a longstanding relationship built on mutual respect, collaboration and a commitment to improving the quality of life for residents throughout the region. The designation of Chahta Way serves as a lasting symbol of that partnership while honoring the generations of Choctaw people who have shaped the history of southeastern Oklahoma.
As new signage is installed, residents and visitors alike will be welcomed by a new roadway name that reflects both the area’s heritage and its promising future.