A new section of Tulsa's RiverParks trail system remains closed

As the weather warms up, Tulsa's RiverParks become a popular spot, but a long-awaited trail extension on the west side has been de-railed by a railroad, at least for now. <br/><br/>The new section

Thursday, May 12th 2005, 6:03 am

By: News On 6

As the weather warms up, Tulsa's RiverParks become a popular spot, but a long-awaited trail extension on the west side has been de-railed by a railroad, at least for now.

The new section would run along Turkey Mountain between 51st and 71st Streets. Union Pacific Railroad won't give permission to put the trail next to its tracks.

RiverParks officials say the railroad is apparently concerned about liability if someone gets hit by a train. The city says there would be extensive fencing and other safeguards to keep people off the tracks. Tulsa RiverParks executive director Matt Meyer: â€œY'know, there's really only one short train that goes down there once a day, back and forth and it's a very slow-moving train, so we think that can be managed."

RiverParks is trying to work a deal where it would be the insurance carrier for that stretch of land.

The city has no jurisdiction over railroad property.