Community Meets About Historic North Tulsa Hospital Revitalization

The Historic Moton hospital in North Tulsa could be getting a new look. Developers met with with community members at a public forum on Saturday.
Developers are hoping to take the land and turn it into something more.

Turning the old building and neglected land into something amazing is going to require community support.

“We can only achieve what is ideal if everyone buys into the idea,” Jonathan Townsend said. “It's not a one-person or a two-person thing. We have to buy into it as a community.”

Townsend founded the group Neighbors Encouraging Other Neighbors (NEON).

And he helped organize this community meeting.

People now are getting a first look at how developers are hoping to turn the historic Morton building to Morton's Reserve.

Tulsa native Michael Smith's development company Pine Place Development is spear-heading the redevelopment plan.

"I truly believe we are going to have massive positive ramifications because of what's taking place here,” Townsend said. “I think it is the beginning of something great."

The initial plan would create a space for new business, housing, retail and provide historic renovation.

The estimated cost sits around $22 million. Once the final plan is drawn, construction could take 18 months.

Organizers and city leaders say development like it is something north Tulsans have been waiting for.

"We've been waiting a long time for someone to come along with the expertise of developing and helping us create something positive,” Townsend said.

Tulsa city councilor G.T. Bynum said he believes in the project.

"This is going to be  tremendous benefit, but not just the housing but the commercial development and retail development and all the jobs that's going to come with it,” Bynum said.

Community members asked questions and

filled out surveys to give their input on what they'd like to see.