Results Of Tulsa Parks Survey Discussed

By Ashli Sims, The News On 6

TULSA, OK -- There are new developments for the future of Tulsa's parks, and they include more restrooms, better trails and more playgrounds.

Those are just some of the improvements explored in a recent survey that could shape the long-term vision for the city parks.

Dozens gathered Monday night to hear the results of the survey and put in their two cents.

A consulting firm called GreenPlay surveyed about 1,300 Tulsans.

They asked how the parks are used, what needs improvement and where the money will come from to pay for these new and improved city parks.

The consultants repeatedly highlighted Tulsans value of their parks. 

Tulsa's Centennial Park scored the best in the survey for community centers. Chamberlain Park did the worst.

Those surveyed said when it comes to indoor facilities, city parks need more activities for young people.

Respondents felt like the outdoor facilities need more restrooms, better playgrounds and trails.

There was a bit of a surprise when it comes to city pools. This has been a hot topic for several summers now as the city has struggled to find the money to open them. Survey participants didn't seem to think city pools were that important, rating parks and trails much higher.

The multi-million dollar question -- how will the improvements be paid for?

This is just a plan, but the survey did look at funding options. 53% of participants favored spending more of current sales tax dollars on parks.

Another 53% wanted to explore "unobtrusive" oil drilling on undeveloped park land.

Citizens did not like the ideas of a new tax for parks or using storm water fees.

7/13/2009  Related Story: Tulsa Parks Department Could Get New Master Plan