New Emphasis On Keeping Downtown Tulsa Clean

By Emory Bryan, The News On 6

TULSA, OK -- With more events coming to downtown Tulsa, there's a new emphasis on keeping it clean. In the last month, there have been some changes in the strategy to make that happen.

In the shadow of downtown's tallest buildings, workers are setting up for Dfest, one of this weekend's big events that will draw people downtown.

A company called Unlimited Sweeping has the new assignment of cleaning downtown so it's presentable for all those visitors.

"I think you're going to see us out there every day, you're going to see these guys running around, in fact we're picking up an 8-yard dumpster of trash every day," said Christopher Lewis of Unlimited Sweeping.

Unlimited Sweeping took over downtown cleanup duty July 1st and deployed vacuum trucks and weed eaters to catch up on deferred maintenance. They've divided downtown Tulsa into four parts.

"Third and main is the center point and its quadrants, NE, SO, NW, we started off on the northwest quadrant and working our way clockwise, and I think now we're on the southeast quadrant," said Christopher Lewis.

"That it's clean and safe and inviting, is a priority," said Susan Neal, City of Tulsa.

Susan Neal with the city says the new quarter million dollar contract reflects a stepped up effort to clean downtown so people will realize it is safe and clean.

"As more and more people learn what a great place this is and figure out this is their downtown for the region, not just Tulsa, I think they'll feel that that's not a concern," said Susan Neal.

"There are some areas that need attention that haven't had attention in the past that we need to work on," said Christopher Lewis.

The new cleanup company is only three weeks into the job, but already has won over the city.

"With all of that happening, they are managing to look like everything is under control and so far, we're pleased," said Susan Neal.

Unlimited Sweeping isn't new to Tulsa. They've handled street sweeping in the city for several years. They also handle cleanup work in downtown Oklahoma City and Bricktown.