Broken Arrow To See $60 Million Improvements

Broken Arrow is getting some big upgrades thanks to $60 million in bonds approved by voters. The bonds will buy new splash pads, a dog park and police and fire equipment for the city; and that's not even half of it.

The majority of the $60 million will be spent on widening Broken Arrow's busiest streets, but that money also means amenities like new trails and softball fields.

8/26/2014 Related Story: Broken Arrow Passes Seven Bond Projects, Rejects Tax Increase

What is now a giant parking lot will eventually be a massive park. Chisholm Trail South Park will have a network of nature trails, playgrounds and picnic pavilions.

"There's nothing like it currently. It's going to be a regional destination park where families can come and spend all day," said Krista Flasch with the City of Broken Arrow.

The amenities at the new park are almost too long to list; possibly adding a fishing dock, a children's museum, rec center and skate park.

Not to mention a Miracle Field for Special Olympics, and five new adult softball fields - a hobby that's hit it out of the park in Broken Arrow.

"So now we'll be able to compete with larger cities and bring in big tournaments to Broken Arrow,” Flasch said.

Nearby, a dog park is pawing its way into the city at Rose West Park; and splash pads will go in at Leisure Park and 37th Street Park.

Better lighting at Indian Springs Sports Complex and Nienhuis Park will improve security there; and playgrounds will be built or refurbished at Copper Creek, Vandever, Country Aire and Highland parks.

"It really is going to improve the quality of life and improve the infrastructure here in Broken Arrow,” said Flasch.

The city also can now complete phase two of the police and fire complex, and can buy new equipment for officers.

Flasch said, "This is going to give our public safety officers the equipment they need to protect and serve our citizens."

The bond also improves storm drains and flood control.

Separate to the $60 million bond, voters approved the construction of a convention center and creative arts center, but a timeline has not been set for any of these projects.