River Parks OK's Deal to Open Blue Rose Cafe on River

Chris Howell, NewsOn6.com

TULSA, OK -- The Tulsa River Parks Authority Board of Trustees unanimously approved a lease Thursday morning that clears the way for building a new Blue Rose Cafe on the east bank of the Arkansas River.

The Authority approved a 30-year lease for the approximately 4-acre tract located near 19^th and Riverside Drive.

The design for the restaurant by Ted Reeds Architecture features an arched bridge over the bike path to reach the waterfront dining, and conversion of the existing restaurant into a small shop for park patrons.

The new restaurant is slated to open by next February.

Related story:  3/12/09  Tulsa's Blue Rose Cafe To Return

Board members were excited by the riverfront project but some expressed concerns about parking.

They said the recently expanded parking at Riverside Drive and 41^st was already inadequate.

Parking spaces at this site will increase by 30 automobile and 16 motorcycle spaces.

The board also approved a proposal by the Tulsa Rowing Club to expand its boathouse, located in River West Festival Park.