Planning Commission To Determine What Is Next For Vacant Tulsa Hotel

The Tulsa Metropolitan Area Planning Commission is set to discuss the next steps for a vacant Tulsa hotel near 81st and Lewis in a meeting later today. A developer has plans for the building but some people living in the area have oppositions to the idea.

Veteran Services USA, the developer, wants to revitalize the former Crowne Plaza hotel into a hybrid of a new hotel on some floors, and a place for veteran housing and an adult day care center on other floors. A petition and repeated letters from people who live in the area of the proposed redevelopment are asking the committee to deny the project.

Some of the reasons behind the opposition include concerns over an increase in crime. The letters also claim there is existing low-income housing options near many of their homes already.

Veteran Services USA said the project is not tailored to be low-income housing, but instead a resource for Tulsa’s veterans. Residents will have to meet a minimum age requirement of 55 years old and around-the-clock security will be on site.

Those behind the project look to debunk some misconceptions about the redevelopment and want to assure residents in this about their commitment.

“We’re also reaching out to veteran organizations and neighboring businesses to make sure they have a full picture of what we’re about and why we want to be a part of this community,” said David Webb, a veteran who now works with Veteran Services USA.

The zoning meeting is set for 1:00 p.m. Wednesday afternoon. You can read the full agenda on this item, including more on the project and the petition and letters of opposition by CLICKING HERE.