New Plans For The Arkansas River In Tulsa

Wednesday, September 6th 2006, 9:52 am

By: News On 6

A big and bold plan for Tulsa that could finally develop the Arkansas River. A group of prominent Tulsans wants to create a 40-acre man-made island in the middle of the river that would include residential and commercial development as well as a grand, public gathering space.

News on 6 reporter Steve Berg says they say in the old days, Tulsans used to think big. And they say it's time for Tulsans to think big again.

They call the project, the Channels. The islands would be connected to the east bank by two bridges. They say the east bank itself would be a large park opposite the islands with steps leading down to the river.

Of course, it all comes with a big price tag. They say it would take $600-million in public money. And they believe they can raise another $100-million through private donations.

It's a big goal, but John-Kelly Warren with Tulsa Stakeholders Inc. says other cities are developing their rivers and says if Tulsa doesn't, it will be left behind. "It's out greatest natural resource and my message would be, let's do it right, we have one opportunity to make Tulsa even greater than it is."

Warren stresses that they aren't developers. He says they created this plan and they'll solicit donations, but he says they personally will not profit from it.

For more information about the project proposal, check out their website.