Public Turns Out To Help Plan Tulsa's Growth

By Chris Wright, The News On 6

TULSA, OK -- Tulsans are getting an opportunity to sound off on a plan for the city's future. After more than two years of effort, PlaniTulsa is entering its final stages.

Wednesday was the second of three public hearings for the 30-year development plan. Most who took the podium voiced their support for PlaniTulsa, but not everyone believes it will work.

PlaniTulsa is a program that has been meticulously put together, and it was discussed in meticulous detail during a public hearing in front of the Tulsa Metro Area Planning Commission.

"It's the embodiment of two years worth of work by our citizens to promote and encourage growth in Tulsa," said Elizabeth Wright of the Tulsa Metro Area Planning Commission.

The goal of the plan is develop a vibrant economy, attract young professionals, provide effective transportation and housing choices, and protect the environment over the next 30 years. There are specific plans for each area of Tulsa, but the hearing was dominated by Midtown residents.

Most say PlaniTulsa will provide them with more control over the future of their neighborhood.

"It isn't perfect, but it's a plan that would lead Tulsa into the future," said Barbara VanHaken, a Midtown resident.

"This is a good balanced plan. It really comes very close to what I would consider an ideal approach to planning and zoning," said Michael Bates of Batesline.com.

So many people want to weigh in on the plan that even a second public hearing couldn't accommodate them. A third is scheduled for March 23rd.

After that, the Tulsa Planning Commission will decide whether or not to tweak PlaniTulsa before passing it on to the City Council.

Several developers did present their problems with the plan. They say it would give the city too much control over what type of buildings can be built in the future.