Tulsa Plans For Tulsa With PLANiTULSA

The city of Tulsa has hired a consultant that will, over the next two years, create a blueprint for the city's growth.

Watch the News Channel 8 video to hear what Tulsans have to say about PLANiTULSA

Thirty years ago was the last time the city created a long-term plan of this kind.

The plan, called PLANiTULSA, will include all parts of Tulsa. The cost of the project is estimated at 1.3 million.

"A lot of old buildings be wonderful if could refurbish those buildings and kind of bring back some of old life of westside," says Bill Parker of west Tulsa.

On the east side: "I think we need some more sidewalks and take better care of parks too," says Omar Rodriguez.

"We need another grocery store out in North Tulsa, a closer Wal-Mart," says Brandy Hickmon of north Tulsa.

To the downtown, trying to re-energize:

"The streets are very important. Bringing life downtown depends on the streets," says Dana Bennetch.

The city has hired John Fregonese to re-shape Tulsa's long-term vision. He says it starts small.

"But then we come up with strategic plan. What's the most important things have to do in short term to get to that vision you have," Fregonese says.

His firm has developed Forward Dallas and Blueprint Denver. Now he'll Plan Tulsa.

"The whole idea is to try out things we know have worked and to see if Tulsans like it."

The kick-off planning meeting of PLANiTULSA will be from 4:30-6:30 p.m. Tuesday at the Central Community Center, 1028 E. 6th St.

On the Web: PLANiTULSA

May 13, 2008