The idea of developing Tulsa’s riverfront was unsuccessful until 1974 when it was proposed as one of several civic projects designed to celebrate the city’s 75th birthday. Though met with open skepticism by many, community leaders were inspired by the success of riverfront developments in other cities around the nation. They envisioned public/private partnerships blending open space, industrial, and residential properties into a corridor of public-use areas all along the Arkansas River in Tulsa County. The year 1974 also marked a decade of flood control by Keystone Dam, further building confidence that the river and its banks could be managed and developed for the economic and cultural benefit of the community.
The Creation of River Parks Authority
The River Parks Authority, created by the City of Tulsa and Tulsa County, soon began transforming the riverfront with over $2 million in federal urban renewal funds. The agency’s first project was the conversion of a former railroad bridge at 29th and Riverside into the Pedestrian Bridge, linking the east and west banks of the river. Next came construction of the early phases of the park’s asphalt-surfaced recreation trail with related amenities. To encourage support and use of the new park facilities, public events, such as fireworks and festivals, were introduced to draw people to River Parks to see its potential.
River Parks now includes over 800 acres of land stretching along miles of the Arkansas River. The focal point of the park is its trail system, weaving through open lawns and tree-lined picnic areas, past bronze wildlife sculptures and the seasonal color of native trees and wildflowers. Public events are centered primarily at the River West Festival Park with its amphitheatre and the Reynolds floating stage. Zink Dam and Lake, completed in 1983, have made the river a popular spot for fishing and rowing, while kayaking the “Tulsa Wave” on the river’s west bank is also a popular water sport. Further south, the untamed beauty of the Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness Area rises above the riverbed, offering rugged hiking and equestrian trails, as well as a panoramic view of the city from its summit.
Private investment is vital to River Parks’ success, with Tulsa-area businesses, foundations and individuals giving generously to expand and improve the park for the benefit and enjoyment of the entire community. In River Parks’ history, the ratio of public funding to private funding is 49% to 51%. This means that just over $1 in private funds has been contributed for every $1 of City, County, State and Federal money. River Parks symbolizes the best of public and private cooperation, as both work together to enhance a unique park in the heart of the city. With approximately 41 miles of riverfront within Tulsa County, the Arkansas River offers a dynamic resource for the continuing development of outdoor recreation opportunities.