Sources Say Developer Plans To Build Walmart In Catoosa

A major company has its eye on Catoosa. Sources tell us a developer is planning to build a Walmart across the street from the Hard Rock Casino.

A construction project started just north of I-44 about two weeks ago. There's a lot of heavy machinery there now and at this point, we know 10 new businesses are planned for the area.

The city says it is making way for the new Catoosa Hills Commercial Subdivision, which will have 10 lots. Sources tell us a Walmart is planned for the area, but the city won't confirm it.

"Catoosa has nothing but Hard Rock, so something like Walmart would really help out," said Alice Schneider.

Schneider lives in Verdigris and often shops at Reasor's in Catoosa.

"If you're doing anything in Tulsa, you either have to stop in Tulsa or you have to go all the way through Catoosa and go into Claremore to get groceries," Schneider said.

She said another grocery store would greatly add to what Catoosa has to offer.

"We don't really have a lot of places to eat here in Catoosa," Schneider said.

A spokesperson with the Catoosa Chamber of Commerce said, in the past few years, the town has seen a lot of development. He hopes Catoosa Hills will be a catalyst for what's yet to come for the city.

"A lot of times I go to Tulsa to go shopping. It'll be a whole lot more convenient for me, so I think that's a good thing," said Catoosa resident Danielle Ironshield. "More people have the option to go look for a job there and stuff like that."

"I think this will be great for the economy in the area, as well," said Yvonne Morris.

Morris grew up in Claremore and knows the shopping center is centrally located. It's right across the street from the Hard Rock and walking distance from hotels and the high school.

"I think this is a very good location. It's right off the highway from either direction you go in; 193rd is great access, as well," Morris said.

We did attempt to call the developer, but she never returned our phone calls.

In a few weeks, the city says it plans to announce what stores will be added to the shopping center.