Vision 2025 Proposal Could Bring Manufacturing Hub To Tulsa

The Raw Space Tulsa proposal may have been left on the cutting room floor after last month’s Vision 2025 retreat between Tulsa city leaders.

However, those behind the idea for a maker’s village technology and manufacturing hub say a lot has changed since then, and they hope to convince the city council that this plan is exactly what Tulsa needs.

It is180,000-square feet of empty space.

The old Fin Tube site, sitting just outside of downtown Tulsa, is one of the city’s most historic properties.

It is surrounded by similar industrial warehouses that Scott Phillips says are ready to be brought back to life.

“So, if we can reinvigorate this area with an innovation hub that is growing, companies and jobs and inspiring students, we can take that million-plus square footage and turn it into an innovation hub for Tulsa," he said.

The idea is similar to what has been done in other cities across the United States, bringing together advanced technology, traditional manufacturing, already established industry and the community.

“I want a facility where Tulsa's greatest welder is mixing with one of Tulsa's greatest advanced technologists," he said.

Phillips is asking for $24 million in Vision funds.

“The message being Tulsa is truly visionary and embrace entrepreneurs and innovators globally and that would've been powerful message,” Phillips said.

He pointed out the volatile oil and gas industry and that the more options the better.

“We need to make that smart decision to invest in our future in technology and the maker movement and innovative and manufacturing,” he said. “Those jobs are a way to diversify our economy and grow our future."

Vision 2025 public town hall meetings begin Monday at 6 p.m. at the Greenwood Cultural Center.

Find more information on this proposal by clicking here