Quality of Life Preliminary Report

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QUALITY OF LIFE INITIATIVE

CITY OF OWASSO, OKLAHOMA

Prepared by: Alaback Design Associates / Guy Engineering

PRELIMINARY DRAFT January 2011

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QUALITY OF LIFE INITIATIVE

CITY OF OWASSO, OKLAHOMA

Prepared by: Alaback Design Associates / Guy Engineering

PRELIMINARY DRAFT January 2011

3

QUALITY OF LIFE INITIATIVE

CITY OF OWASSO, OKLAHOMA

Prepared by: Alaback Design Associates / Guy Engineering

PRELIMINARY DRAFT January 2011

4

QUALITY OF LIFE INITIATIVE

CITY OF OWASSO, OKLAHOMA

Prepared by: Alaback Design Associates / Guy Engineering

PRELIMINARY DRAFT January 2011

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QUALITY OF LIFE INITIATIVE

CITY OF OWASSO, OKLAHOMA

Prepared by: Alaback Design Associates / Guy Engineering

PRELIMINARY DRAFT January 2011

Owasso Quality of Life Initiative Preliminary Draft Report ‐ January 2011

Prepared for : City of Owasso, Oklahoma

Prepared by: Alaback Design Associates Guy Engineering Services

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The Owasso Quality of Life Initiative was developed with the assistance and input from numerous organizations and individuals.

Special thanks go to the many citizens, community leaders, elected officials and City of Owasso staff members who have provided valuable guidance to this planning effort. We are also grateful to the following organizations that graciously offered their facilities to host community workshops: Owasso Public Schools, Baptist Village and Discovery Bible Fellowship Church.

Appreciation is also extended to Karl Fritschen for his dedication as project coordinator for this important planning initiative.

CITY COUNCIL

Doug Bonebrake, Mayor (Ward 5)

John Sinex, Vice‐Mayor (Ward 4)

Bryan Stovall (Ward 1)

Stephen Cataudella (Ward 2)

Wayne Guevara (Ward 3)

Rodney Ray, City Manager Warren Lehr, Assistant City Manager Sherry Bishop, Assistant City Manager Karl Fritschen, Community Development Director Chelsea Harkins, Economic Development Department Director David Warren, Parks Department Director Roger Stevens, Public Works Department Director Jerry Fowler, Neighborhood Coordinator Teresa Wilson, Information Technology Director

CIVIC ENGAGEMENT CONSULTANT

PLANNING CONSULTANT TEAM

Wikiplanning

CITY OF OWASSO

Alaback Design Associates, Inc. Guy Engineering Services, Inc.

Table of Contents

Page

List of Figures .................................................................................................................................................................................... i

1.0 Introduction

1.1 Project Overview and Objectives .............................................................................................................................. 1‐2

1.2 What is Quality of Life? ............................................................................................................................................. 1‐4

1.3 Why is Quality of Life Important? ............................................................................................................................. 1‐6

1.4 Planning Process ....................................................................................................................................................... 1‐8

2.0

3.0

Community Analysis 2.1 Owasso’s Heritage and Culture ................................................................................................................................. 2‐2 2.2 Community Context .................................................................................................................................................. 2‐6 2.3 City‐Wide Development Framework ........................................................................................................................ 2‐8 2.4 Community Parks ..................................................................................................................................................... 2‐11

Ator Park Overview ....................................................................................................................................... 2‐12

Centennial Park Overview ............................................................................................................................. 2‐14

Elm Creek Park Overview .............................................................................................................................. 2‐18

Friendship and Rayola Parks Overview ......................................................................................................... 2‐22

Funtastic Island Park / Veteran’s Memorial Overview ................................................................................. 2‐26

McCarty Park Overview ................................................................................................................................. 2‐28

Owasso Sports Park Overview ...................................................................................................................... 2‐30

Skate Park Overview ..................................................................................................................................... 2‐34

Veterans Park Overview ................................................................................................................................ 2‐36 2.5 Existing Pedestrian / Bicycle Circulation ................................................................................................................... 2‐38 2.6 Streetscape Opportunities ........................................................................................................................................ 2‐44 2.7 Summary of Opportunities and Constraints ............................................................................................................. 2‐46

Community Participation 3.1 Public Outreach Objectives ....................................................................................................................................... 3‐2 3.2 Community Workshops ............................................................................................................................................ 3‐3 3.3 7th Grade Student Workshop ................................................................................................................................... 3‐6 3.4 Wikiplanning Civic Engagement Campaign ............................................................................................................... 3‐9

Overview of Wikiplanning Activities ............................................................................................................. 3‐9

Summary of Citizen Survey Results ............................................................................................................... 3‐11 3.5 Community Participation Summary .......................................................................................................................... 3‐16

4.0

Owasso Quality of Life Enhancements 4.1 Overview of Long‐Range Community Vision ............................................................................................................. 4‐2 4.2 Parks and Recreation ................................................................................................................................................. 4‐6

2015 Parks Master Plan ................................................................................................................................. 4‐6

Passive Recreation / Family Activities ............................................................................................................ 4‐8

Active Recreation / Sports Facilities ............................................................................................................... 4‐12

Creative Play .................................................................................................................................................. 4‐14

Splash Pad / Water Play ................................................................................................................................. 4‐16

Community Swimming Pool / Water Park ..................................................................................................... 4‐18

Off‐Leash Dog Parks ....................................................................................................................................... 4‐20

Youth‐Oriented Alternative Sports Park......................................................................................................... 4‐22

Environmental Learning / Nature Parks ........................................................................................................ 4‐24

Healing Gardens / Meditation Parks ............................................................................................................. 4‐26 4.3 Youth Sports ............................................................................................................................................................... 4‐28

Youth Softball ................................................................................................................................................. 4‐28

Youth Baseball ............................................................................................................................................... 4‐31

Youth Soccer ................................................................................................................................................... 4‐34

Special Needs Youth Sports ............................................................................................................................ 4‐36

Youth Football ................................................................................................................................................ 4‐38 4.4 Pedestrian and Bicycle Improvements ...................................................................................................................... 4‐40

Regional Trail Linkages .................................................................................................................................. 4‐40

City‐Wide Pedestrian / Bicycle System ........................................................................................................... 4‐42

On‐Street Bike Routes and Sidewalks ................................................................................................ 4‐42

Multi‐Use Trails .................................................................................................................................. 4‐44

Transportation Design Strategies .................................................................................................................. 4‐46 4.5 Community Image and Landscaping .......................................................................................................................... 4‐50

Community Image and Appearance Opportunities………………………………………………………………………………….. 4‐50

Public Art ........................................................................................................................................................ 4‐54

Highway 169 Image Opportunities ................................................................................................................ 4‐56

Highway 169 Design / Aesthetics ...................................................................................................... 4‐56

Highway 169 Corridor Landscaping ................................................................................................... 4‐60

Table of Contents (continued)

Page

4.5 Community Image and Landscaping (Continued)

Community Gateways and Landmarks ......................................................................................................... 4‐66

Community‐Wide Landscape Development .................................................................................................. 4‐72

Streetscaping and Green Streets ................................................................................................................... 4‐76

4.6 Community Gathering Places and Cultural Facilities ................................................................................................ 4‐80

Festival / Events Park .................................................................................................................................... 4‐80

Outdoor Amphitheater .................................................................................................................................. 4‐82

Multi‐Purpose Events Pavilion ...................................................................................................................... 4‐84

Community Lake ............................................................................................................................................ 4‐85

Multi‐Purpose Regional Stormwater Detention ........................................................................................... 4‐88

Performing Arts Center ................................................................................................................................. 4‐92

Community Center Facilities ......................................................................................................................... 4‐93

4.7 Pedestrian‐Oriented Development ........................................................................................................................... 4‐94

Mixed‐Use Development ............................................................................................................................... 4‐94

Tulsa Tech Owasso Campus Opportunities ................................................................................................... 4‐97

Downtown Revitalization .............................................................................................................................. 4‐100

4.8 Environment and Sustainability ................................................................................................................................ 4‐102

Community‐Wide Focus on Sustainable Principles (Go Green! Initiative) .................................................... 4‐102

Fitness, Wellness and Healthy Lifestyles ....................................................................................................... 4‐104

4.9 Strong Neighborhoods .............................................................................................................................................. 4‐106

Owasso Strong Neighborhood Initiative ....................................................................................................... 4‐106

5.0 Summary

5.1 Next Steps ................................................................................................................................................................. 5‐2

5.2 Keys to Success ......................................................................................................................................................... 5‐5

APPENDICIES A. May 2010 Community Meetings Summary B. 7th Grade Student Workshop Summary C. Wikiplanning On‐Line Civic Engagement Campaign ‐ Executive Summary and Survey Data

List of Figures

Figure 1

Page

Owasso Location Map .................................................................................................................................................... 1‐3

Figure 2

Regional Context ............................................................................................................................................................ 2‐7

Figure 3

City‐Wide Development Framework .............................................................................................................................. 2‐9

Figure 4

Ator Park ‐ Existing Conditions ....................................................................................................................................... 2‐13

Figure 5

Centennial Park ‐ Existing Conditions ............................................................................................................................. 2‐15

Figure 6

Elm Creek Park ‐ Existing Conditions .............................................................................................................................. 2‐19

Figure 7

Friendship and Rayola Parks ‐ Existing Conditions ......................................................................................................... 2‐23

Figure 8

Funtastic Island Park / Veteran’s Memorial ‐ Existing Conditions ................................................................................. 2‐27

Figure 9

McCarty Park ‐ Existing Conditions ................................................................................................................................ 2‐29

Figure 10 Owasso Sports Park North ‐ Existing Conditions ............................................................................................................ 2‐31

Figure 11 Owasso Sports Park (North and South) .......................................................................................................................... 2‐33

Figure 12 Skate Park ‐ Existing Conditions ..................................................................................................................................... 2‐35

Figure 13 Veterans Park ‐ Existing Conditions ................................................................................................................................ 2‐37

Figure 14 Existing Sidewalk System ‐ Southwest Quadrant ........................................................................................................... 2‐40

Figure 15 Existing Sidewalk System ‐ Southeast Quadrant ............................................................................................................ 2‐41

Figure 16 Existing Sidewalk System ‐ Northwest Quadrant ........................................................................................................... 2‐42

Figure 17 Existing Sidewalk System ‐ Northeast Quadrant ............................................................................................................ 2‐43

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1.0 Introduction

SECTION 1

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Project Overview and Objectives

As one of the fastest growing cities in Oklahoma, Owasso has made the transition from a small agricultural community into a diverse city in which thousands of residents make their home. Alongside this rapid growth in population, the city has experienced dynamic growth in business and retail opportunities. As Owasso has grown and changed, so have the needs of its residents as they look to their community to become the place where they can work and enjoy time with family and friends. As a result, Owasso’s ser‐ vices and amenities must also evolve to meet the needs of citizens. The Owasso Quality of Life Initiative is intended to create a long‐term vision that will guide the city’s growth as a sustainable and desirable place to live and work.

The primary goal of this effort is to improve and promote quality of life ele‐ ments and activities that will help expand the livability of the community for its residents, and serve as an encouragement to those who want to be‐ come part of an exceptional community. The Quality of Life Initiative will be part of the city’s comprehensive planning efforts to incorporate charac‐ teristics that are associated with livability. It represents a unique opportu‐ nity to create community gathering places, and to integrate and expand parks and recreation throughout the city in a creative manner that im‐ proves upon the quality of life enjoyed by residents. It will increase accessi‐ bility to natural landscapes and amenities not currently available within the city.

A key component of this initiative is to build upon the community strengths in which Owasso already excels, and then to create an innovative vision to add the missing ingredients that can elevate the city from “really good” to “great.” Ultimately, the objective is to plan quality of life amenities that result in the attitude of “I wouldn’t want to live anywhere else!”

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SECTION 1 INTRODUCTION

SECTION 1 INTRODUCTION

Figure 1: Owasso Location Map

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SECTION 1

INTRODUCTION

1.2 What is Quality of Life?

Defining what the phrase Quality of Life means is fundamental to this plan‐ ning initiative. There are a myriad of definitions for this phrase and it can take on a different meaning for every person. Some of the elements that are usually associated with good quality of life include good schools, walk‐ ing / biking trails, recreational opportunities, nice parks, scenic open spaces and attractive architecture and landscape features. Quality of life also gen‐ erally includes cultural facilities, community gathering places and art. Basic elements such as affordable housing and well‐maintained streets can also be considered to improve quality of life.

Expansion Management ranks quality of life for communities by evaluating the following criteria:

 Standard of Living  Quality of Workforce  Lack of Traffic Congestion  Quality of Schools  Adult Education Levels  Housing Affordability  Continuing Education  Access to Air Travel  Peace of Mind

In reality, quality of life is highly subjective and an individual choice. It can include intangibles like a sense of well being or security. Ultimately, it is the way that Owasso’s residents answer this question that matters most to al‐ low for the creation of a vision that meets their goals. A major focus of this study has centered on involving Owasso’s citizens toward this end.

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SECTION 1 INTRODUCTION

SECTION 1 INTRODUCTION

There are many definitions for quality of life; however, for purposes of this project it is defined as “the things in your community that you take pride in and enjoy”.

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SECTION 1

INTRODUCTION

1.3 Why is Quality of Life Important?

A recent television news segment highlighted a ranking of com‐ munities with populations under 50,000. A joint effort by CNN, Fortune and Money magazines produced BEST PLACES TO LIVE ‐ Money’s list of America’s best small towns. The top small com‐ munities offered great school systems, short drives to larger metropolitan cities, strong economies with good jobs, great healthcare, low crime rates, plenty of shopping and Americana with a small town feel, and in almost every case, numerous rec‐ reational opportunities for their residents. Here are some brief looks at what the top five most livable small towns in America have to offer: #1 – Louisville, CO – “The top reason residents give for moving here? The great outdoors ‐ Louisville is laced with nearly 30 miles of trails, Rocky Mountain National Park is less than an hour away, and eight world‐class ski resorts are within two hours.” #2 – Chanhassen, MN – “The town has 11 lakes, 34 parks, and the 1,047‐acre Minnesota Landscape Arbo‐ retum.” #3 – Papillion, NE – “Papillion has acres of open space.

Last year the town opened Sumpter Amphi‐theater, a $1.5 mil‐ lion perform‐ing arts center that hosts free movies, concerts, and wine tastings. And a new AAA baseball stadium is planned for 2011.” #4 – Middleton, WI – “The town has a 1,000‐acre network of parks, bike paths, and running and cross‐country ski trails.” #5 – Milton, MA – “Milton is full of historic homes, tree‐ lined streets, and well‐tended gardens, plus lots of parks and playgrounds.”

Owasso has all the requisite amenities of these great communi‐ ties except for one key missing ingredient – standout recreation, health, and entertainment features. Granted, some of the lo‐

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cales that were recognized are blessed with incredible physical settings, but many that aren’t have made up for their locations with man made amenities for all to enjoy. Whether it is a net‐ work of trails and bike paths, a festival park and amphitheater, a sports park makeover, a nature center, a water park, or simply key enhancements to existing parks, Owasso can benefit in the decades ahead from the differentiating recreational and aes‐ thetic features that create real quality of life. Owasso has spent the last fifteen years allocating a major portion of Capital Im‐ provement funds to streets, water, wastewater, and public safety. Owasso’s school system is top notch. Healthcare op‐ tions are tremendous. Owasso has excellent shopping and a small town feel, and at the same time has quick access to every‐ thing Tulsa has to offer. What Owasso doesn’t have are those key amenities that make new generations feel that this is where they want to raise their families; those features that can be shown off to visitors and that catch the attention of prospective new residents.

Owasso has so much to be proud of and thankful for, but could benefit even more with those “quality of life” amenities that create pride of ownership and the attitude of “We wouldn’t want to live anyplace else. We love living and playing in Owasso.” “Quality of Life” includes not only the previously mentioned basics, but also the well planned recreational and cultural features that give the community a “wow” factor. Ac‐ cessibility to parks, activities, and nature has a tremendous im‐ pact on the overall quality of lifestyle.

The high value placed upon outdoor recreation is evident when you drive by Centennial Park on a nice day. It is not uncommon

SECTION 1 INTRODUCTION to see twenty or more cars in the parking lot that belong to peo‐ ple enjoying one of the community’s nicest trail systems or our new disc golf course. Many are typically enjoying the children’s playground or fishing in the small lake there. Or you see it when you drive by Rayola Park on a warm day and note that the new splash park is literally brimming with small children enjoying the water features there. You see it in the busloads and families spending hours upon hours at the Sports Park or at Funtastic Island, the culmination of a great citywide team efforts. How‐ ever, to stay on the leading edge when it comes to retaining and attracting families to Owasso, the community needs much more than a few nice parks and a place for children to play ball.

Creating excellent quality of life goes far beyond aesthetics and amenities for its residents; there are significant economic bene‐ fits as well. It has been demonstrated many times in the Tulsa area alone that quality of life plays a major role in attracting and retaining jobs. Oklahoma City also provides a strong example that substantial private investment has followed the commu‐ nity’s decision to invest in their downtown through the MAPS program.

With the increased mobility of today’s businesses, they often decide to locate their companies in areas with a high quality of life (such as natural amenities). Two of the fastest growing sec‐ tors in the economy, people working in knowledge‐based indus‐ tries and retirees, often have a choice of where to live. Surveys have consistently identified natural amenities and recreational opportunities as key factors determining where entrepreneurs and retirees choose to locate. For companies relocating a rela‐ tively high percentage of professional talent, quality of life issues

SECTION 1 INTRODUCTION

can be a critical factor. Quality of life will directly impact the ability of a company to entice people to move with the job. For national recruiting, it can make the difference in whether or not they can attract the best talent.

Real estate industry analysts also confirm quality of life as a de‐ termining factor in real estate values and economic vitality. One 1998 industry report calls livability “a litmus test for determining the strength of the real estate investment market. If people want to live in place, companies, stores, hotels and apartments will follow.” A 1996 report by Arthur Anderson Consulting Com‐ pany found that executives increasingly choose to work in loca‐ tions that offer a high quality of life outside of the workplace.

Availability of education was also found to be of prime impor‐ tance, and not far behind were recreation, cultural institutions and a safe environment. Proximity to open space was consid‐ ered an important benefit, too.

Across the United States, parks and open space are increasingly recognized as vital to the quality of life levels that fuel economic health. Convenient access to parks and open space has become an important measure of community wealth ‐ an important way to attract businesses and residents by guaranteeing both quality of life and economic vitality. According to Attracting Invest‐ ment, (The Trust for Public Land) corporate CEOs say that quality of life is the third most important factor in locating a business, behind only access to domestic markets and availability of skilled labor.

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SECTION 1

INTRODUCTION

1.4 Planning Process

The consulting team (Alaback Design Associates and Guy Engi‐ neering Services) met regularly throughout the project’s dura‐ tion with a committed group of City of Owasso representatives.

An essential part of the project’s scope was the integration of community participation throughout the entire planning proc‐ ess. Obtaining meaningful public input was critical to ensure that the plans created reflected the desires of the citizens. The following summary provides an overview of the major steps in the planning process to develop the Owasso Quality of Life Ini‐ tiative:

 EXISTING CONDITIONS INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS The first major phase of the planning effort was an analysis of city‐wide features that had the potential to influence fu‐ ture quality of life improvements, with a focus on parks / trails, community gathering places and youth sports. This inventory also included an evaluation of the existing side‐ walk system and opportunities for streetscape enhance‐ ment.

 COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION AND OUTREACH A primary focus for this initiative was to engage the citizens of Owasso in a significant participation effort. The main ob‐ jective for public outreach was to clearly identify the type of community that Owasso residents desire for their future.

Working closely with City of Owasso staff, the project team facilitated a series of five community workshops to allow residents to express their goals, desires and concerns for Owasso's future growth. A web‐based civic engagement

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campaign, developed in conjunction with Wikiplanning, also allowed for citizen input over a three‐month period. Addi‐ tional efforts to gain community feedback included a work‐ shop with Owasso’s 7th grade students and a half‐day work‐ shop with City of Owasso department leaders.

 DEVELOPMENT OF PROPOSED QUALITY OF LIFE PLAN Based upon the information learned from the analysis and community outreach tasks, a preliminary plan was devel‐ oped for proposed quality of life enhancements. The plan establishes a long‐range vision for the community to reach the objectives outlined earlier in this chapter. Specific prod‐ ucts for this task include a PowerPoint presentation and a comprehensive report that describes proposed enhance‐ ments in both narrative and graphic form. Following review and refinement of the preliminary plan, the Owasso Quality of Life Initiative findings will be presented to the community.

A major public participation effort allowed the citizens of Owasso to identify their desired vision for the city’s future.

2.0 Community Analysis

SECTION 2

COMMUNITY ANALYSIS

2.1 Owasso’s Heritage and Culture

An understanding of Owasso’s historical development provides useful in‐ sight into the modern day community. The following brief overview is sum‐ marized from materials developed by the Owasso Historical Society.

Owasso began as a settlement in 1881, in the Cooweescoowee dis‐ trict of the Cherokee Nation, Indian Territory, near what is now 66th Street North and North 129th East Avenue. Located along Elm Creek, a tributary of Bird Creek, the new settlement became known as the Elm Creek Settlement. The first settler was H.T. (Tole) Richardson.

By 1893, the settlement contained several residences, a blacksmith shop and a general store. Preston Ballard, owner of the general store, established a post office in the store on February 10, 1898 and was appointed the first postmaster. The Joseph Barnes family moved to the settlement in 1897, and Joseph and Luther Barnes bought the blacksmith shop in 1898.

In 1897, the Kansas, Oklahoma Central and Southwestern Railway Company acquired right‐of‐way near what is now 86th Street north and north Mingo Road, dammed a natural spring to form a lake as a water supply for the rail line and built a depot about a mile south of the lake. The depot was torn down in 1942. Because the rail line missed the Elm Creek settlement, the residents and businesses began moving their buildings to the area around the depot. Late in 1898, Joseph and Luther Barnes moved their blacksmith shop to the new community. The shop became a temporary home for the Joseph Bar‐ nes family and was the first residence officially moved to the new depot community.

Preston Ballard moved his general store and post office at about the same time, and the new community became known as Elm Creek, 2 ‐ 2 intentionally

The Owasso Historical Museum is housed in the brick structure known as the Komma Building, built by John Komma in 1928 to house Mapes and Komma Grocery and market The Owasso Historical Society purchased the building on August 31, 1987, and used volunteer labor to refurbish the structure to be used as a museum. The museum was officially opened on November 3, 1991.

COMMUNITY ANALYSIS

SECTION 2

since the post office retained its name. The name of the Elm Creek post officewas changed on January 24, 1900 to Owasso. Owasso is an Osage word interpreted to mean “the end” or “turn around” because the rail line ended in the area where the Owasso Public Works Admini‐ stration building is now located. The steam locomotives got their water supply at the lake, and were turned around near the depot and headed back north. The rail line was not extended into Tulsa until 1905.

On March 26, 1904, a plat for the Town of Owasso, Cherokee nation, I.T. was signed by the Secretary of the Interior and the town was incor‐ porated. When the plat was signed, there were three streets running north and south: Oklahoma, Kansas and Missouri. Of the eight streets running east and west, the northern four were named for Union gener‐ als (Sheridan, Thomas, Sherman and Grant), and the southern four (Lee, Johnson, Jackson and Longstreet) were named for Confederate gener‐ als. In about 1960, the streets were changed to their current names.

By the time Oklahoma became a state on November 16, 1907, Owasso had a population of 379 within the town limits, but more than three times that many in the surrounding area. The town had three hotels, two grain elevators, a bank, drug stores, general stores, millinery stores, hardware stores, livery stables, grain and fed companies, cotton gins, lumber companies, blacksmith shops, restaurants, grocery stores, coal companies, barber shops, construction companies, livestock auc‐ tioneers, stockyards, meat and produce markets, dry goods stores, a real estate company, a development company, an attorney, doctors and dentists.

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SECTION 2

COMMUNITY ANALYSIS

After World War I, the automobile gained prominence and road construc‐ tion began. The modern day Main Street alignment was developed as High‐ way 75 / 169. During the early to mid 1920’s, Owasso “turned around” and reoriented its development away from the railroad toward the new high‐ way. Through the Depression era and up until World War II, growth in Owasso was limited. The small town experienced economic growth in the 1940s and 1950s when American Airlines and the Tulsa Airport were estab‐ lished and employed a large percentage of Owasso’s work force. Following the Second World War, soldiers returned home and the town grew more rapidly through the 1960s. The automobile and roads became prominent elements of the community. Dairy farming was a popular occupation at that time, with 50 dairy farms within the school district. Later these farms were sold and subdivided into small residential lots.

With a lack of manufacturing or major employers within the community, growth within Owasso was somewhat limited. For many years Owasso functioned primarily as a bedroom community to Tulsa. For the past sev‐ eral decades years, Owasso has experienced strong growth and continued development, primarily to the east of the Owasso Expressway.

Today, Owasso is one of Oklahoma’s fastest growing communities. With a population of approximately 38,000 and strong growth in health care and retail businesses, Owasso has successfully evolved into a full‐service com‐ munity. Although more than a century old, most of the original or older buildings no longer exist. There is a remarkable absence of physical evi‐ dence of Owasso’s heritage, with the Owasso Historical Society Building on N. Main Street providing a solitary tribute to its past. Fires, tornadoes and bulldozers have claimed the original buildings from Owasso’s earlier years.

Opportunities to reinforce Owasso’s unique heritage should be an impor‐ tant part of the long‐term vision for quality of life improvements.

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COMMUNITY ANALYSIS

SECTION 2

Understanding Owasso’s culture is also important in planning for the city’s future development. Owasso is widely recognized for being family‐oriented and for having strong community spirit. Whether it involves supporting the school or the independent sports team, or maybe just helping out with a local cause, this civic spirit helps unite the citizens and neighbors of Owasso. There are also a great number of churches in Owasso, with several different faiths and beliefs practiced within the community.

The community’s culture is also well illustrated through Owasso’s City of Character Initiative, which began in 2002. Owasso joined local and interna‐ tional communities in a commitment to the promotion of an environment that emphasizes positive character qualities in every sector of the city. This program is promoted through several means, including placing banners around the city which identify the “character trait of the month” (i.e., Com‐ passion, Dependability, Generosity, Honor, etc.) And finally, the spirit of Owasso’s citizens is well summarized in the city’s slogan: Owasso – The City Without Limits.

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SECTION 2

COMMUNITY ANALYSIS

2.2 Community Context

On the following page, Figure 2 illustrates the regional context of Owasso within the larger Tulsa metropolitan area. Owasso is strategically located at the center of several highway transportation systems. Highways 75 and 169 are major north/ south highways, and Highway 20 is a major east / west highway. All three‐highway systems combine to provide easy access to and from Owasso in all directions. Owasso’s central location on Highway 169 provides fast access to Tulsa and Interstates 40 and 44. An excellent trans‐ portation network and convenient access to Tulsa and the surrounding ar‐ eas is a tremendous asset for Owasso. Close proximity to Tulsa’s services and cultural opportunities is also a major advantage for Owasso.

The Tulsa international Airport is located approximately seven miles to the south of Owasso. In addition to providing passenger and cargo services, this 4,000‐acre complex accommodates more than 100 aviation related busi‐ nesses and agencies. South of Owasso, Bird Creek and its adjacent flood‐ plain separates the city from Tulsa and ensures that Owasso will retain its physical identity as a distinct community.

According to Owasso’s on‐line community profile, the city’s population of 38, 412 is projected to grow more than 15% by 2014. The Owasso commu‐ nity includes many people who live within the Owasso fence Line (Planning boundary) and within the school district, but not within the official city lim‐ its. More than 80% of the households in Owasso are families, and the aver‐ age household income is over $83,000 (Source: 2008 Nielsen Claeitas).

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COMMUNITY ANALYSIS

SECTION 2

Figure 2 ‐ Regional Context

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SECTION 2

COMMUNITY ANALYSIS

2.3 City‐Wide Development Framework

Figure 3 illustrates Owasso’s development framework, which identifies ma‐ jor physical features as well as planned projects. The city is positioned to benefit from the large employment centers that are nearby, including the Cherokee Industrial Park, the Port of Catoosa, and American Airlines. The Port of Catoosa is located at the head of the McClellan‐Kerr Arkansas River Navigation System. This port is fully intermodal and contains a 2,000‐acre industrial park. Three miles west of Owasso, the Cherokee Industrial Park contains over 1,300 acres that provides employment for many Owasso resi‐ dents.

North of 106th Street, the Tulsa Tech Campus is under construction and will create potential for adding new developments in the adjacent areas that support this campus. Figure 3 also show the locations for Owasso’s two state‐of‐the‐art hospitals (Bailey Medical Center and St. John Owasso). As shown in the lower left corner the drawing, the Owasso Mohawk Trail and Bikeway will soon link the city with the regional trail network.

Owasso’s street system is a key element of the community’s infrastructure.

The city has invested in its street network to provide access to growing resi‐ dential and commercial properties throughout the community. The graphic shown on page 2‐10 provides a good overview of completed projects, in‐ progress projects, and future projects for the city’s arterial streets. Contin‐ ued investment will be needed to complete expansion of the major street grid, particularly in the less developed northern areas.

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COMMUNITY ANALYSIS

SECTION 2

NORTH

Figure 3 ‐ City‐Wide Development Framework

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SECTION 2

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COMMUNITY ANALYSIS

Current Status of Owasso’s Arterial Street System (December 2010)

COMMUNITY ANALYSIS

SECTION 2

2.4 Community Parks

An analysis of Owasso’s park system has been an important component of this study. A community’s parks and greenways are one of the most important elements in determining the quality of life for its residents. The following pages provide a summary for each of Owasso’s parks, including an inventory of current recreational facilities, events and observations on the park’s cur‐ rent condition. The project team visited each park to gain an understanding of existing facilities, vehicular and pedestrian circulation, drainage and topogra‐ phy, trees, vegetation and aesthetic qualities.

Owasso’s park system is very diverse and includes a broad range of recrea‐ tional facilities. Currently there are 12 parks, several of which are combined within a single contiguous property, ranging from small neighborhood parks to larger community parks of nearly 50 acres. The parks incorporate a wide vari‐ ety of activities, including passive recreation, active play, youth sports and open space. The condition of recreational facilities within the parks varies con‐ siderably, from newer facilities such as those in Centennial Park and Funtastic Island, to older parks where additional investment is needed. With a good un‐ derstanding of current recreational resources, future planning can establish a clear vision of how the park system can become an even more important ele‐ ment in improving the quality of life for Owasso’s residents.

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SECTION 2

COMMUNITY ANALYSIS

Ator Park Overview

As shown on the facing page in Figure 4, Ator Park is located within an established neighborhood on the south of West 20th Street. This 4‐acre site is bisected by a creek, and the property includes nice open spaces and mature wooded areas.

Currently, the park has fairly minimal recreational improvements consisting of playground equip‐ ment and picnic tables. However, the park pro‐ vides functional space for informal play. Further improvements can enhance this scenic neighbor‐ hood park that is an important asset to area resi‐ dents.

Location: 303 West 18th Street Total Area: 3.78 Acres Facilities:  Picnic Tables  Playground Equipment Past Events:  Block Party Preliminary Site Observations:  Small Neighborhood Park  Minimal Play Equipment  No Parking Available On‐site or Adjacent to Park  Large Drainage Swale Cuts Through Park North to South  Views in Each Direction: Bailey Ranch Residential

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Ator Park is a pleasant neighborhood scale recreational space that is enhanced with large trees, play equipment, and public art.

COMMUNITY ANALYSIS

SECTION 2

Figure 4: Ator Park ‐ Existing Conditions

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SECTION 2

COMMUNITY ANALYSIS

Centennial Park Overview

Due to its size and beautiful natural character, Centennial Park has become a great place for passive recreation and a significant community gathering place. Featuring the longest trails in Owasso, this 47‐acre park has become a popular destination for walkers, jogger, bicyclists and children. The park has been well developed to a high level of quality through the construction of paved/lighted trails, playgrounds, and an attractive picnic shelter. As shown in Figure 5, Centennial Park is an irregularly shaped property that is bisected by a creek that runs through the entire length of the park. With a parking lot and main entry off of 86th Street, the park is easily accessible to the Owasso community. A second access point and parking area at the park’s north end provides good access to adjacent neighborhoods.

Location: 15301 East 86th Street North Total Area: 47 Acres Facilities:  3 Mile Walking / Jogging Trail  Restrooms and Water Fountains  Picnic Shelters  Fishing Ponds  Playground Equipment  Disc Golf (18 Holes) Past Events:  Harvest Festival Preliminary Site Observations:  Shelter, Restroom Facilities and Playground in Good Condition  Disc Golf Course in Northeast Portion of Site; Large Creek Runs Through the Site and Connects to Secondary Pond

 Open Area East of Main Pond has Potential for Development

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Centennial Park’s three mile long lighted trail is one of the best places to walk, run or bike in Owasso.

COMMUNITY ANALYSIS

SECTION 2

Figure 5: Centennial Park ‐ Existing Conditions

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SECTION 2

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COMMUNITY ANALYSIS

The large pond at the south end of Centennial Park is scenic and provides a great natural setting for the existing walking trails, large picnic shelter, and for other park users.

Floating fountains are attractive and help improve the pond’s water quality.

COMMUNITY ANALYSIS

SECTION 2

Centennial Park’s improvements include playground equipment, a disc golf course and a signature pedestrian bridge. The park has a diverse environmental habitat that includes large trees, open fields, several ponds and a creek that meanders through the scenic 47‐acre property.

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SECTION 2

COMMUNITY ANALYSIS

Elm Creek Park Overview

As illustrated in Figure 6 on the facing page, Elm Creek Park is a large park with a central pond that is surrounded by homes on all sides. The park has been developed with a wide range of recreational improvements, including two vehicular access points / parking areas and restroom facilities. The park also has a large open space at the east end that is used for informal sports and play. Although there are currently erosion issues around the lake pe‐ rimeter that detract from the park’s visual environment, this park has excel‐ lent potential for enhancements that can make it a valued neighborhood / community park.

Location: 12501 East 77th Street North Total Area: 21.75 Acres Facilities:  1/2 Mile Walking / Jogging Trail  Restrooms and Water Fountains  3 Picnic Shelters  Tennis Courts  Playground Equipment Past Events:  Rotary Fishing Derby Preliminary Site Observations:  Large Neighborhood Park with Parking On‐Site  Existing Trees in Fair to Good Condition  Existing Shelter, Restroom Facilities, Picnic Tables, Play Equipment and Walking Trail around Pond  Central Pond has Erosion Issues at Banks  Several Low Areas with Standing Water

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Elm Creek Park – Walking Trails and Bridge

Large open recreation area at east end of park

COMMUNITY ANALYSIS

SECTION 2

Figure 6: Elm Creek Park ‐ Existing Conditions

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SECTION 2

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COMMUNITY ANALYSIS

Elm Creek Park currently has a wide range of recreational facilities, as shown in the photographs above. This large park incorporates scenic natural areas, picnicking, walking, tennis and children’s play. Additional site improvements and upgrades to park facilities can make Elm Creek Park an even more popular community gathering place.

COMMUNITY ANALYSIS

SECTION 2

Elm Creek Park currently has significant issues with erosion and stabilization of pond banks and at the water’s edge.

However, these problems can be addressed through the use of native stone and natural plantings. These improvements have the potential to reduce siltation in the pond, and as a result, water quality would also improve.

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SECTION 2

COMMUNITY ANALYSIS

Friendship and Rayola Parks Overview

Located on the east edge of Owasso’s original downtown neighborhood, these two parks are highly visible and easily accessible from Highway 169 and its frontage road. As described below, Rayola Park’s 19 acres accommo‐ date significant recreational facilities and sports fields. The park also is home to the Owasso Family YMCA, which is a very well used activity center for the community. Friendship Park’s gazebo is a recognizable structure and a popular venue for civic events. The park’s central location and promi‐ nence make continued improvements a sound investment.

Location: 8400 Mingo Valley Expressway / 8300 Owasso Expressway Total Area: 2.15 Acres (Friendship Park) / 19 Acres (Rayola Park) Facilities:  Playground Equipment  Gazebo  Picnic Shelter  Baseball Fields  Restrooms and Water Fountain  Ornamental Gas Lighting  Sand Volleyball Court  Memorial Trees  Basketball Court  Butterfly Garden  Spray Park  3/4 Mile Walking Trail

Preliminary Site Observations:  Play Equipment Somewhat Disconnected from Other Pieces  Noise and fast‐paced traffic on Highway 169 is noticeable  Area West of Shelter Slopes and Drains Down to Shelter  Splash Pad Constructed in summer of 2007; Drains to Creek  Views to South, North and West: Residential  Views to East: HWY 169 and Access Road  Baseball Field in Fair to Good Condition; Could Use Facility Upgrades  Practice Baseball Fields on West Side of Property with Poor Facilities  Park Needs Another Connection Across Drainageway  Restroom Facilities are Adjacent to Splash Pad on South End of Park

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Past Events:

 Art In The Park  Winter Wonderland  Outdoor Concerts  Easter Sunrise Services  YMCA Hog Jog  Sell‐A‐Bration In The Park  Good Sam’s Convention

The gazebo in Friendship Park is a popular gathering place for community events, and is also an important landmark element for Owasso.

COMMUNITY ANALYSIS

SECTION 2

FRIENDSHIP PARK

RAYOLA PARK

YMCA

Figure 7: Friendship and Rayola Parks ‐ Existing Conditions

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SECTION 2

COMMUNITY ANALYSIS Located in the center of Rayola Park, the Owasso Family YMCA has become a great place for fitness and community gathering.

The YMCA is easily accessible to the community from Highway 169, and its contemporary architectural style creates a highly visible landmark.

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The south end of Rayola Park accommodates a wide variety of recreational facilities, including playground equipment, a basketball court and a sand volleyball court. A recently constructed spray park has been a popular addition to the park’s recreational opportunities.

COMMUNITY ANALYSIS

Existing Baseball field north of the YMCA (Future master planning for the park should coordinate with the YMCA’s future expansion plans.)

Existing drainageway through the center of Rayola Park

SECTION 2

Baseball practice fields adjacent to neighborhoods

Existing picnic shelter and play equipment at the south end of Rayola Park

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SECTION 2

COMMUNITY ANALYSIS

Funtastic Island Park / Veteran’s Memorial Overview

As illustrated In Figure 8, two distinctly different parks are located on the north side of the Owasso Sports Park. Access is provided from 116th Street, with a single paved parking lot available for visitors to both areas. The Vet‐ eran’s Memorial has been nicely developed with a walking trail that links granite monuments that pay tribute to the five branches of US military ser‐ vice. Funtastic Island is an outstanding destination‐quality play area that is a great example of successful citizen involvement. To achieve the goal of creating fun for all ages, the playground was designed and built in 2005 by community volunteers and subsequently donated to the City of Owasso.

Location: 10320 East 116th Street North Total Area: 3 Acres Funtastic Island Facilities:  Playground Equipment (Swings, Climbing Equipment, Slides, Etc.)  Restrooms and Water Fountains  Picnic Facilities  Picnic Shelter Preliminary Site Observations (Funtastic Island Park):  Excellent / Well‐Used Destination Play Area  Trees in Fair Condition; Serve as Screening to Adjacent Properties and

Between Different Spaces  Several Open Areas for Possible Additional Development  Facilities in Good Condition  Some Areas around Play Equipment Have Drainage Problems  Mulch in Play Areas is Wood Chip Veteran’s Memorial Facilities:  Granite Monuments and Benches Past Events:  Annual Veteran’s Day Ceremony

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Funtastic Island—Existing Play Features / Pavilion

Veteran’s Memorial— Granite Monuments / Walkway

COMMUNITY ANALYSIS

SECTION 2

Figure 8: Funtastic Island Park / Veteran’s Memorial ‐ Existing Conditions

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SECTION 2

COMMUNITY ANALYSIS

McCarty Park Overview

McCarty Park is located in a somewhat sparsely populated area on the west side of Owasso, with access from 86th Street North. As shown in Figure 9, the park has been developed to include soccer fields, baseball fields, and a rodeo arena that is used by the Owasso Roundup Club. The park also ac‐ commodates a restroom and parking areas. A new dog park is currently planned to be constructed in the southeast corner of the park, which will include perimeter fencing to allow dogs to be off‐leash. McCarty Park in‐ cludes open space that could be utilized for future recreational activities.

Location: 8200 North 91st East Avenue Total Area: 19 Acres Facilities:  Baseball Fields  Soccer Fields  Restrooms / Concession Facility  Rodeo Grounds Past Events:  Trail Days Rodeo  Juneteenth Rodeo  Baseball Tournaments Preliminary Site Observations:  Park Location is in Outlying Area of City  No Signage for Park; Difficult to Find from 86th Street, Including dead end Sign on 91st East Avenue  Very Flat Site  Parking in Fair to Poor Condition  Existing Trees in Good Condition

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The west side of McCarty Park currently accommodates a rodeo arena and undeveloped open space.

McCarty Park’s east side has been developed with baseball fields and soccer fields. A new dog park is planned to be located in the southeast corner.

COMMUNITY ANALYSIS

SECTION 2

Figure 9: McCarty Park ‐ Existing Conditions

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SECTION 2

COMMUNITY ANALYSIS

Owasso Sports Park Overview

As shown in Figure 10, Owasso’s Sports Park North provides youth sports fields for soccer, baseball, softball, and flag football. (Refer to the list of fa‐ cilities below for details.) As the primary activity center for these sports, this park is heavily utilized for league games and tournaments. Currently, the park is only accessible from a single point of entry from 116th Street and as a result traffic congestion can be significant at times. Existing fields are generally in good condition. The Owasso Sports Park has been recently expanded to include 74 acres to the south of the current park, which will allow a much needed second point of access from 106th Street.

Location: 10320 East 116th Street North Total Area: 151.47 Acres (Includes 74.2 Acre Sports Park South Expansion) Sports Park North Facilities:  Flag Football Fields  Softball Four‐Plex  Park Office / Maintenance  Baseball Four‐Plex  “Walk in the Park” Program  Multi‐Use Four‐Plex  Restroom Facilities and Water  Soccer Fields (13)

Fountains (3) Sports Park South Facilities:  Home to Funtastic Island and  Baseball Field (365 ft.)

Veteran’s Memorial Past Events:  NAIA Softball Tournament ‐ 1995  Annual Burning of the Greens  Softball / Baseball Tournaments Currently Planned Improvements (Sports Park South):  Baseball Field (365 ft.)  Football Fields (7)  Baseball Four‐Plex (2‐250 ft.)  Parks Department Main Office

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The Owasso Sports Park provides fields for four youth sports and is a major recreational destination.

Existing softball and baseball fields have good fencing and lighting to provide very functional play. Future planning for youth sports should also consider the ad‐ dition of amenities that will further enhance the en‐ joyment for players and spectators.

COMMUNITY ANALYSIS

SECTION 2

Figure 10: Owasso Sports Park North ‐ Existing Conditions

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SECTION 2

COMMUNITY ANALYSIS

The Owasso Sports Park has been well developed with youth sports fields and support facilities. The majority of the parking is centrally located and is convenient for users of the fields for several sports (see photo above in lower right corner).

However, all traffic must enter and exit the park from a single point of entry that connects with 116th Street.

Improving the paving condition of the parking lot and providing improved traffic flow are major needs for the park.

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COMMUNITY ANALYSIS

SECTION 2

The architectural style and quality level of the park’s facilities is an asset to the park.

Existing buildings in the Owasso Sports Park North include restrooms and several maintenance structures.

Figure 11: Owasso Sports Park North and South

As illustrated in this view looking south, the new 74‐acre Owasso Sports Park South is currently home to one baseball field. As shown in Figure 11, this large addition will provide excellent potential for future growth of youth sports programs in Owasso. Future planning for the park should consider the most beneficial manner in which to integrate existing sports fields with planned expansion of fields in the new parcel.

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SECTION 2

COMMUNITY ANALYSIS

Skate Park Overview

As illustrated in Figure 12, Owasso’s Skate Park is located west of Main Street, with primary access from 76th Street. The park provides an alterna‐ tive form of recreation that adds diversity to Owasso’s park system. The skate park includes a number of above‐ground play features and ramps on a large slab of pavement. Future planning for the park should consider op‐ portunities to upgrade the facilities for skate boarding and bike enthusiasts, including the possibility of a below‐grade poured concrete skate park.

Location: 456 South Main Street Facilities:  11 Skateboard Features  Restrooms , Water Fountain, and Paved Parking Preliminary Site Observations:  Open Areas to North and Southeast with Potential for Development  Some Existing Graffiti on Ramps; Possible Opportunity for Graffiti

Art Contest  Views To North: City Vehicle Maintenance Facility  Views to East: City Recycling Center  Views to South: Animal Shelter  Views to West; Tree‐Screened Railroad Tracks

Currently Owasso’s Skate Park accommodates eleven features / jumps on a large concrete slab.

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Support facilities for the skate park include an existing restroom building, drinking fountain and paved parking lot.

COMMUNITY ANALYSIS

SECTION 2

Figure 12: Skate Park ‐ Existing Conditions

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SECTION 2

COMMUNITY ANALYSIS

Veterans Park Overview

As shown in Figure 13, Veterans Park is a small 3‐acre park that is located north of 86th Street North. Currently, this property is completely undevel‐ oped and lacks visible definition as a park, and has no vehicular access or parking. Veteran’s Park is bordered by single‐family homes to the north, and the south edge of the park is exposed to noise from 86th Street traffic.

The park’s physical features include open lawn areas as well as mature trees at the east end of the property. Future planning for the park should ad‐ dress buffering traffic / noise from 86th Street, as well as creating recrea‐ tion areas that are safely separated from the adjacent arterial street.

Owasso’s 2015 Parks Master Plan includes a trail linkage that will connect Veteran’s Park with the community’s planned trail network.

Location: 12001 East 86th Street North Total Area: 3 Acres Past Events:  United Way ‐ “Name that Park” Preliminary Site Observations:  Park Fronts 86th Street (Noise / Traffic)  No Existing Recreational Improvements  Rolling Terrain Slopes toward Drainageway; Cuts Through Site and

Drains to Culvert under 86th Street  Existing Tree Groupings in Good Health  Above‐Ground Manholes for Storm Sewer on Site  No Parking or Vehicular Access to the Park  Large Utility / Cell Tower in Northwest Corner of the Park  Views to North and West: Existing Residential Areas  Views to East: Power Substation  Views to South: 86th Street

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A large drainageway bisects Veterans Park, flowing through the 3‐acre park under 86th Street.

Large native trees at the park’s eastern end could provide nice shade for future park users.

COMMUNITY ANALYSIS

SECTION 2

Figure 13: Veterans Park ‐ Existing Conditions

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SECTION 2

COMMUNITY ANALYSIS

2.5 Existing Pedestrian / Bicycle Circulation

Another important component of Owasso’s infrastructure that has a signifi‐ cant effect on quality of life is the pedestrian and bicycle circulation system.

A major goal that has been identified for this study is the creation of one contiguous pedestrian trail system. A walkable community is made up of trails and walks that connect neighborhoods, schools, parks and other com‐ munity destinations. This system has several components, including off‐ road trails and sidewalks that are within the public street right‐of‐way. Bike facilities include a combination of dedicated bike lanes in addition to streets that are designated as shared bikeways.

In this section, drawings are included (Figures 14‐17) that illustrate the gen‐ eral extent of the existing sidewalk system along Owasso’s arterial streets.

These maps divide the city into four quadrants and show locations where sidewalks currently exist along main roadways. In general, the sidewalk system is more complete in core areas of the community, particularly along streets that have been improved or widened in recent years. There are still significant areas of the city where there are no sidewalks along arterial streets, especially where main roads are 2 lanes and have not been im‐ proved. Currently, arterial streets crossing under Highway 169 do not ac‐ commodate pedestrians or bikes adequately, although the planned highway construction project (between 56th and 116th Streets) will create an impor‐ tant opportunity to remedy this.

Off‐road pedestrian trail routes and “Share the Road” Bikeways are pro‐ posed on the Owasso 2010 Land Use Master Plan. Proposed trail alignments are also shown on the 2015 Parks Master Plan. These proposed trails gen‐ erally follow drainageways, the SKO railroad, and the Highway 169 corridor.

To date, none of these planned trails have been constructed.

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Recent City of Owasso projects with good sidewalks include Main Street in the downtown area (top photo) and 129th East Avenue (bottom photo). Both of these projects provide universal access and meet the guidelines of the Americans with Disabilities Act.

COMMUNITY ANALYSIS

SECTION 2

As illustrated above and to the left, the 76th Street underpass at Highway 169 does not currently have adequate space for bikes or pedestrians.

As illustrated in the two photographs above, 76th Street would benefit from sidewalks and bike facilities to accommodate other modes of travel.

Several of Owasso’s parks have existing trail networks, including Elm Creek Park (left). Centennial Park also has a very good trail that is approximately 3 miles in length. Future planning should address connecting these, and other parks, in a continuous trail network.

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SECTION 2

COMMUNITY ANALYSIS LEGEND

EXISTING SIDEWALK (ON ARTERIAL STREETS)

CITY LIMITS

SIDEWALK LIMITS ARE APPROXIMATE (MARCH 2010)

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Figure 14: Existing Sidewalk System ‐ Southwest Quadrant

COMMUNITY ANALYSIS

SECTION 2 LEGEND

EXISTING SIDEWALK (ON ARTERIAL STREETS)

CITY LIMITS

SIDEWALK LIMITS ARE APPROXIMATE (MARCH 2010)

Figure 15: Existing Sidewalk System ‐ Southeast Quadrant

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SECTION 2

COMMUNITY ANALYSIS LEGEND

EXISTING SIDEWALK (ON ARTERIAL STREETS)

CITY LIMITS

SIDEWALK LIMITS ARE APPROXIMATE (MARCH 2010)

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Figure 16: Existing Sidewalk System ‐ Northwest Quadrant

COMMUNITY ANALYSIS

SECTION 2 LEGEND

EXISTING SIDEWALK (ON ARTERIAL STREETS)

CITY LIMITS

SIDEWALK LIMITS ARE APPROXIMATE (MARCH 2010)

Figure 17: Existing Sidewalk System ‐ Northeast Quadrant

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SECTION 2

COMMUNITY ANALYSIS

2.6 Streetscape Opportunities

The visual quality of the street scene along public roadways plays a major factor in shaping a community’s image, potentially creating either a very positive or negative perception. The presence of street trees alone, given time to mature and grow, can radically change the image of a community and its thoroughfares. Reviewing existing conditions and opportunities for Owasso’s streetscaping is an important part of the initiative to enhance the community’s quality of life. Streetscape elements typically include land‐ scaping, lighting, pedestrian paving, signage, public art and site furnishings (benches, bike racks, litter receptacles, planters, etc.) Streetscape elements will vary with the context of each street setting. For example, the design of a street through a residential area will be different than the character of a street in a downtown or other urban context.

Currently, Owasso has few streets that have been developed with signifi‐ cant streetscape elements. The most recent example of streetscape devel‐ opment is along Main Street, between 76th and Broadway Streets in down‐ town Owasso. As shown in the photographs to the right, Main Street was improved with new sidewalks and crosswalks, decorative paving, stone planters, trees, shrubs, and site furnishings. The addition of decorative street lighting with colorful banners is one of the most visible enhancement elements. Future construction phases are planned to extend this street‐ scape treatment north on Main Street to 86th Street, and along 76th Street between Main and Highway 169.

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Streetscaping was completed in Owasso downtown several years ago. Enhancements include decorative lighting, paving and site furnishings.

COMMUNITY ANALYSIS

129th East Avenue is an example of a recent street widening project that could be further enhanced with landscaping. Overhead power lines must be considered in choosing tree types to avoid future conflicts.

76th Street, as illustrated in this photo looking east from Main Street, would benefit from streetscape enhancements.

SECTION 2

The addition of streetscape elements to Owasso’s arterial streets and major collector streets has the potential to significantly enhance Owasso’s image.

Streetscaping should be included with every new street and intersection project within the city. Landscaping can also be added to existing streets, including recently widened roads such as 129th East Avenue.

Priority should be given to higher visibility corridors that are most impor‐ tant in the effort to establish and maintain a quality image for Owasso.

Due to their many environmental benefits, durable shade trees should be the focus of streetscape efforts in most areas. Where possible, overhead electrical and phone lines should be buried to achieve the benefits of re‐ duced power outages, improved appearance, and elimination of conflicts with tree branches. Lower growing tree varieties should be used where overhead lines cannot be placed below grade.

The Hwy. 169 corridor through Owasso represents a tremendous opportunity to create high‐impact landscaping.

As shown in this view looking north along Highway 169, landscaping can enhance Owasso’s image in this highly visible area.

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SECTION 2

COMMUNITY ANALYSIS

2.7 Summary of Opportunities and Constraints

Understanding Owasso’s unique community culture, develop‐ ment patterns, and physical framework is an important part of the planning process for the Quality of Life Initiative. In combi‐ nation with identifying the goals of its citizens, this information will form the basis for a creating an effective long‐range vision for Owasso’s future growth. The following is a brief summary of significant opportunities and constraints that will have an impact on Owasso’s quality of life.

Opportunities  The planned Highway 169 construction project through the core of Owasso is an Incredible opportunity to redefine the city’s image from this heavily travelled roadway. This project creates opportunities for gateways, as well as natural oppor‐ tunities to create a high impact landscape corridor. The ex‐ pansion of Highway 169 will also provide smoother traffic flow through Owasso.  The city currently has undertaken a number of progressive community programs, including the Owasso Strong Neighborhood Initiative, Go Green! Initiative, and Character Initiative. A Capital Improvements Strategic Plan is also be‐ ing developed. Owasso has already demonstrated their in‐ tent to become a sustainable community that is investing time and effort in planning for its full potential.  Owasso has excellent potential to invest in and improve ex‐ isting park properties. The 2015 Parks Master Plan outlines many innovative objectives and plans for major enhance‐ ment to the city’s park system, providing strong guidance for long range development and expansion.

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

Centennial and Elm Creek Parks have the natural assets and size to become outstanding recreational facilities. With its recent 74‐acre expansion, the Owasso Sports Park also has great potential to become a premier youth sports complex.

The recent expansion of the sports park also provides the ability to add a much needed second point of access from adjacent streets. The Owasso Family YMCA, located within Rayola Park, is also a major activity center that has become an important part of the community’s fabric. Future plan‐ ning should consider the need for additional neighborhood parks, as well as potentially more community‐wide parks that add new forms of recreation.  In the near future, Mohawk Trail will connect Owasso to the Tulsa Regional Trail Network with a new linkage from Mo‐ hawk Park north to 76th Street. There is an opportunity to create a trailhead at 76th Street to connect to this new trail segment. In addition, this new connection to the metropoli‐ tan area network is a chance for Owasso to increase its efforts for the development of trail network within the com‐ munity that will connect major use areas (neighborhoods, schools, parks, shopping areas, etc.).  Owasso’s land resources are also an asset for the commu‐ nity’s future quality of life. The city limits include substantial areas of undeveloped land, and there is even more potential within the Owasso Fence Line planning boundaries. This land availability creates an opportunity to plan for new park prop‐ erties, as shown on the 2015 Parks Master Plan, and also to achieve other potential community goals for future facilities.

COMMUNITY ANALYSIS











Owasso is strategically located at the center of several transportation corridors, including Highways 75, 169, and 20.

All three highways provide fast, easy access in all directions.

This creates the opportunity for Owasso residents to take advantage of its proximity to Tulsa’s diverse resources. Just as importantly, this creates the potential for people living in northeast Oklahoma, and beyond, to travel to Owasso for shopping, recreation or to visit cultural attractions.

Upcoming street widening projects In Owasso provide an opportunity for significant enhancements that would be planned in conjunction with design of the streets. The city’s streets could be designed to integrate “Complete the Streets” strategies to accommodate all modes of travel, in‐ cluding pedestrians and bicycles. Streetscaping could also be incorporated to enhance the community’s image.

Owasso has a strong public art program that has been highly successful in bringing art and sculpture to many areas of the city. This focus provides momentum for continued emphasis on art as a key element of the community’s culture.

Owasso’s public schools are widely recognized as being out‐ standing. The creativity and energy of Owasso’s youth can be a major resource in shaping Owasso’s future growth. In ad‐ dition to the school system, Owasso’s excellent health care facilities can also be great community partners to promote healthy living / wellness and physical fitness.

The Tulsa Tech Owasso Campus, now beginning construc‐ tion, can become a great educational asset to the commu‐ nity. Planning for adjacent areas should maximize the value of this new facility.

SECTION 2



On the south side of Owasso, an existing railroad bridge that spans Highway 169 creates an opportunity for a new com‐ munity gateway through creative enhancement of the bridge structure.  Located on the southeast edge of Owasso, the Stone Canyon development has incorporated a variety of uses that are be‐ ing developed to a high level of quality. Stone Canyon in‐ cludes a large lake and natural areas that can be a significant asset to the community.

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SECTION 2

COMMUNITY ANALYSIS

Constraints  One of the most significant issues that impacts Owasso’s quality of life is the current lack of facilities for bikes and pedestrians along many city streets. There is a also significant amount of work needed to create a complete pedestrian trail system that connects neighborhoods with schools, parks, and other major community activities.  In spite of past investment in the city’s transportation system, there are still significant amounts of street and intersection improvements that are needed. Many of the city’s arterial streets are two lanes in width, and there are areas where traffic congestion occurs. As an example, the Owasso Sports Park is a major recreational destination that is accessible only from an unimproved arterial street, resulting in poor traffic flow.  Creating a consistently positive community image is a challenge that can be addressed through quality of life improvements. Visual image issues include commercial developments with little or no landscaping, over‐ head electric lines that are unattractive and limit streetscape potential and the lack of streetscaping and trees along most of the city streets.

Improving views from Highway 169 should also be a priority, including landscaping of the highway corridor itself and screening unattractive views in several areas along the highway.  Revitalizing Downtown Owasso remains a challenge, with limited pro‐ gress since the completion of the master plan in 2001. The lack of his‐ torical buildings that create an identifiable identity is a basic issue that is difficult to address. Downtown projects, such as the recent Main Street streetscaping and the proposed historical CNG filling station, are posi‐ tive steps that can build momentum.  Currently, Owasso’s commercial developments are automobile oriented and are generally “one stop” shopping. The city would benefit from pedestrian‐oriented mixed use developments , as well as other cultural or recreational destinations, that can become true community gathering places.

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In summary, the positive attributes and opportunities for Owasso outweigh the city’s challenges for its fu‐ ture growth and development. The character and community spirit of Owasso’s citizens are clearly sum‐ marized in “The City Without Limits” slogan. Owasso has the potential to become a city that attracts both residents and quality jobs, and provides an array of amenities for those who live and work here.

3.0 Community Participation

SECTION 3

COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION

3.1 Public Outreach Objectives

Planning for and building the ideal community begins with a shared vision between residents, businesses, and city leadership. Creating the ideal vision involves progressive thinking with future generations in mind. A key focus for the Quality of Life Initiative has been to engage the citizens of Owasso in a significant public participation effort. The primary goal for this public out‐ reach was to clearly identify the type of community that residents of Owasso desire for their future. Defining the community’s vision for its de‐ sired quality of life is the critical foundation upon which planning proposals are conceived and developed. Ultimately, a community’s vision for its growth will only be successfully implemented if there is strong community‐ wide consensus, which is only possible when there is effective participation from citizens during development of a plan. In order to make participating in the planning process convenient for all citizens, the Quality of Life Initia‐ tive has included several different ways to contribute.

Community Workshops: In May 2010, five community meetings were held to allow citizens to interact in a group setting to share ideas and have ques‐ tions answered.

7th Grade Student Workshop: Held in June 2010, Owasso students were invited to participate in a Town Hall meeting to express their ideas for the community’s future from their unique perspective.

Wikiplanning Civic Engagement Campaign: A unique web‐based strategy allowed interaction from citizens by accessing a website that was specifi‐ cally created for the Quality of Life Initiative. This website provided infor‐ mation about the project, and allowed citizens to take part in a number of activities to communicate their ideas or concerns for Owasso.

The following section of the report provides a brief overview for each of these community involvement forums. (Refer also to Appendices A, B, and C of this study for more detailed summaries.)

3 ‐ 2

The primary objective was to engage the community in answering the question “What is your vision for Owasso’s future?”.

COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION

SECTION 3

3.2 Community Workshops

Beginning May 3, 2010, five community meetings were held over a 3 week period to allow citizens of Owasso to take part in determining a future vi‐ sion for their city. These meetings were facilitated by the planning team, with significant involvement from City of Owasso employees. These work‐ shops were well attended and allowed Owasso residents to learn more about this important planning initiative and to share their thoughts on the quality of life features they desired for their community.

The community workshops provided an opportunity to interact with city representatives and the planning team. These meetings also provided an informal setting for citizens to provide input, listen to views of other residents, view maps and displays, and learn more about the project’s scope and objectives.

Five Community Workshops were held throughout the city in May 2010.

3 ‐ 3

SECTION 3

COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION

Each of the community meetings began with an introduction by a City of Owasso representative, which provided perspective on the City’s goals for the planning initiative. This was followed by a slide show presentation by the planning team that began with a short summary of the project’s scope, schedule and planning process. A major focus of the slide show addressed the important question of “What is Quality of Life?”, with the premise that this means something different to every individual. To stimulate ideas and to provide a starting point for discussion, the planning team presented a broad range of images that are typically associated with a good quality of life. A few of these are illustrated in the photographs to the right, including elements such as trails, sports facilities, family activities, and basic elements such as good streets. Other elements that were presented included land‐ scaping, pedestrian‐friendly developments, public art and public lakes.

The introductory presentation at each of the community meetings included a brief review of the proposed concept of “Building on Owasso’s Excellence.”

The quality of life study is focused on adding elements and features that are currently not available within the community. It is very important to begin this planning initiative with the understanding that Owasso already has a number of outstanding characteristics, and that future enhancements will building upon the foundation of these strengths. Owasso currently enjoys a strong reputation for having excellent schools, neighborhoods, churches, health care, shopping / dining, as well as several good golf courses and rec‐ reational facilities.

Trails

Sports Facilities

Good Streets

3‐ 4

Community meetings included a presentation of examples of things that are typically associated with good quality of life .

COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION

SECTION 3

Following the conclusion of opening remarks and a review of the slide presentation, citizens were in‐ vited to adjourn to 5 different “break out” discus‐ sion groups that were dispersed in different areas of the meeting room. These discussion sessions, facilitated by planning team and City staff, created an informal setting to ask questions and share ideas or concerns. Each of the 5 groups areas were set up with display boards (maps and photos) that showed existing Owasso facilities and images of potential quality of life features. As shown in the diagrams to the right, the discussion groups cov‐ ered diverse topics. Group facilitators recorded citizen comments on large flip charts.

Group discussions provided a good forum to communicate ideas. In addition, residents at each workshop were invited to use comment forms

To submit written suggestions to the City.

In summary, the five community workshops were well attended and provided very good input for consideration in the development of potential quality of life enhancements for Owasso. A com‐ plete record of citizen comments from the 5 work‐ shops is included in Appendix A at the end of this report. Public comments were quite diverse, but were generally positive and offered constructive feedback for creating an innovative vision for the community. The time invested by Owasso’s citi‐ zens and City staff in the workshops will help to ensure that the proposed quality of life elements reflect the desires of the community to the great‐ est extent possible.

3 ‐ 5

SECTION 3

COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION

3.3 7th Grade Student Workshop

Another unique forum for community participation involved a group of stu‐ dents from Owasso. On June 10, 2010, the City of Owasso and planning con‐ sultants held a Quality of Life Workshop with Owasso 7th graders. Below is a brief summary of the interactive exercises that the students participated in.

(Also see Appendix B for a more detailed review of this workshop and the re‐ sults of each activity.)

After opening comments by the Honorable Mayor of Owasso and others, the students were shown a “Boos and Cheers” presentation, during which they were shown images of positive and negative events / amenities and asked to “boo” or “cheer” in response. As expected, the students cheered for features they liked and expressed their dislike for negative elements. After the group presentation, the students were directed to four activity stations to participate in a variety of exercises that allowed them to share their vision for Owasso’s ideal future. A review of each station is presented in this summary.

Exercise 1: The Sliding Value Scale Group leaders read a total of 15 statements while the students physically aligned themselves on a large sliding scale marked with “Strongly Agree” and “Strongly Disagree.” As illustrated in the photograph below, students were all in agreement with the statement that they should have a voice in how their community grows.

QUESTION:

I should have a say in how my community grows.

3‐ 6

Students participated in a lively exercise, where they reacted to a wide variety of images by booing or cheering to express their likes and dislikes.

COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION

Students provided creative park ideas!

SECTION 3

Exercise 2: “Draw a Park” Mural Students were presented with a large wall mural and asked to draw or write things that they desired in a city park. The group leader offered ideas to spark creativity, such as a fishing pond, playground equipment, gazebos, am‐ phitheater, trails, splash pad, etc. While they drew, the students were asked questions such:  What is your favorite park in Owasso?

 Think of a park in another city. What does that park have that Owasso doesn’t? How would you change that park to make it even better?  How do you think you will use parks in 10, 15 or even 20 years?  Do you think it is important for parks to appeal to all age groups?

 How can you make parks safer?

Exercise 3: Sticker Voting Photographs of various activities and amenities were printed on posters and placed on the wall, and students were given green dot stickers with which to vote on elements that they felt were most important to Quality of Life in Owasso. The images below reflect the “voting” results provided by the stu‐ dents.

Facilitators encouraged discussion with questions such as “If you had to choose one of these photos that most represents your likes or interests,

which one would it be and why?”

3 ‐ 7

SECTION 3

COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION

Exercise 4: What Do You Think is Important?

Students were given the opportunity to write down, from their perspective, what three things were most important to kids, adults and parents and sen‐ ior citizens and grandparents. The images at the bottom of this page illus‐ trate the students responses. While they deliberated and as they wrote, they were posed questions for discussion that included:  How would you characterize the types of things you think kids most en‐ joy in our community? Are they largely recreational activities? Parks?

Shopping and retail? Improvements to streets?  How would you characterize the types of things you think your parents or other adults enjoy the most in our community?  How would you characterize the types of things you think your grand‐ parents or other senior citizens enjoy the most in our community?  If there were one new thing that could be built in Owasso that would appeal to all three of these groups, what would it be? Why do you think that would appeal to all three age groups?

3‐ 8

Students were challenged to think about their community from the perspective of several generations.

Students displayed creativity and thoughtfulness in all four of the interactive exercises.

Creative thinking is an important first step in develop‐ ing a vision for the best way for Owasso to grow and reach its potential. The students who participated in this workshop shared many insightful ideas.

COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION

SECTION 3

3.4 Wikiplanning Civic Engagement Campaign

Overview of Wikiplanning Activities

Owasso residents who visited the Wikiplanning site could take part in several interactive activities that allowed them to share ideas, images, and comments.

In an effort to involve as many community members as possible, the Owasso Quality of Life Initiative included a web‐based civic engagement tool that was provided by Wikiplanning. This innovative program has been effective on other planning projects in reaching out to residents who gener‐ ally don’t attend public meetings, and it allows a format that encourages candid comments.

The Wikiplanning site, which was accessed using a zip code and email ad‐ dress, included a “welcome” from City representatives, after which citizens could proceed to a number of interactive activities. Visitors to the website could take a quality of life survey, review other City of Owasso planning re‐ ports, or post photographs with comments. The site also offered an oppor‐ tunity to map where people live, work and play. A message board allowed residents to post and read comments.

On April 14, 2010, the project website went “live” and allowed the citizens of Owasso the opportunity to participate in their city’s Quality of Life Initia‐ tive in the comfort of their homes or offices, or wherever they had access to the internet. After 92 days of online availability that ended on July 16, 2010, Wikiplanning proved to be an effective way of reaching hundreds of residents and gaining their input into their city’s Quality of Life Initiative Plan process. At the close of the civic engagement campaign, there had been 812 distinct logins to the Wikiplanning project site and over 550 peo‐ ple had left their opinions about the quality of life in Owasso.

3 ‐ 9

SECTION 3

COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION

SURVEY Survey questions were developed in collaboration with the City of Owasso Plan‐ ning Department, the city’s planning consultant and Wikiplanning staff in hopes of gaining public input into the values on which the plan was being built and new ideas that might be considered. The goal was not to have local residents choose between planning scenarios, but rather express their opinions about the future development of Owasso in terms of quality of life attributes. In doing so, the intent was to help participants better understand how their perspective ranked relative to others. To accomplish that, all individual survey responses were immediately aggregated and viewable on the Wikiplanning website allow‐ ing real time access to the constantly evolving public commentary. (A tabula‐ tion of the responses to survey questions is provided later in the section of the report.)

DISCUSSION BOARD Embedded in the survey were two open‐ended essay questions seeking infor‐ mation on the City of Owasso’s assets and challenges. The answers to these questions appeared on the Discussion Board where additional comments could also be left. All citizen comments were immediately posted on the Wikiplan‐ ning website allowing real time access to the accruing public commentary. (The final Wikiplanning report, available on the City of Owasso’s website, provides a complete listing of these comments.)

PICTURE POSTINGS Project participants uploaded 20 images to the Photo Posting Activity. Partici‐ pants were asked to post photos that they felt embodied both Owasso’s assets and challenges. Other participants were encouraged to post comments relative to the previously posted images, and several did so. The photographs shown to the right are examples of photographs that were posted, along with some of the community’s comments and reactions to these images.

3 ‐ 10

One of the most interactive activities of the Wikiplanning site allowed the community to post photographs that illustrated images of elements they desired for Owasso’s future, or were examples on negative features to be avoided.

COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION

SECTION 3

Summary of Citizen Survey Results

The Wikiplanning civic engagement effort contained a comprehensive survey, and as previously mentioned, almost 550 participants submitted their responses. The following summary provides an overview of the survey results, which will provide essential input that will guide the City in creating a long‐range vision for Owasso’s future. Appendix C in this report provides a more detailed version of the survey results. (The entire Wikiplanning Quality of Life report is also available on‐line through the City of Owasso’s website.)

The on‐line survey included 27 questions, with the primary objective of allowing citizens to help identify quality of life features that would enable Owasso to become an attractive, sustainable and livable community for future generations. One of the first and most important steps in this process is to understand the needs, desires and concerns of Owasso citizens. The following section of this re‐ port provides a summary of responses submitted by the community. As shown below, the first six questions dealt with an evaluation of current conditions in Owasso. The lowest rated factors were Parks and Recreation, and Roads and Streets.

3 ‐ 11

SECTION 3

COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION

As shown above, the highest ranked factors for “why people choose to live or work in Owasso” are quality of schools, followed by family oriented / friendly atmosphere and safety / low crime rate. Owasso’s proximity to Tulsa, as well as neighborhoods / housing availability were also important factors.

The survey also provided 16 questions that included statements about Owasso with which respondents could agree or disagree. The chart on the following page provides a summary of the responses, with a tabulation of “strongly agree” and “agree” answers shown as a per‐ centage for each of the potential community elements. For the 550 Owasso residents who participated, there was a clear interest in creating an environmentally sustainable commu‐ nity that fostered health and fitness as two of the top needs. Equally important was the need to develop amenities that attract jobs. Other elements that were well supported in‐ clude trails, a festival / events area and recreation / entertainment geared toward young professionals. All of the elements listed as potential needs were supported, by varying per‐

centages, by at least half the survey participants.

3 ‐ 12

COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION

SECTION 3

Summary of Survey Data Wikiplanning On‐Line Civic Engagement Campaign

This chart provides a tabulation of the responses to 15 of the survey questions, with the results shown in order of importance to the 550 Owasso residents who participated. The highest rated need is for Healthy Lifestyles, fitness and wellness.

3 ‐ 13

SECTION 3

COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION

The Wikiplanning survey also included two open‐ended questions. The fol‐ lowing is a summary of the responses received to the first question: “In your opinion, what are the things about Owasso that make it a great place to live, work or visit?” 143 responses were submitted, and the following provides a generalized tabulation of the top responses by listing the num‐ ber of times a specific comment was mentioned. Specific comments were grouped into the general categories that are shown below. (See Appendix C for complete results.)

Comment

Number of Occurrences

Sense of Community / The People / Family‐Friendly / Caring

70

Good Schools

56

Safe / Low Crime (Good Police and Fire Department)

45

Good Shopping and Dining

45

Small Town Feel / Atmosphere

32

Proximity to Tulsa /Convenient Location

25

3 ‐ 14

COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION

SECTION 3

The second question asked: “If you could change one thing about Owasso to make it a better community, what would it be?” 394 responses were submit‐ ted, and the following provides a generalized tabulation of the most frequent responses by listing the number of times a specific comment was mentioned.

(See Appendix C for a complete tabulation of all responses.)

Comment

Number of Occurrences

Community Swimming Pool / Water Park

45

More Walking / Bike Trails

44

Better Sports Complex

36

Fix Roads / Better Roads

27

Small Town Feel / Atmosphere

32

Proximity to Tulsa /Convenient Location

25

3 ‐ 15

SECTION 3

COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION

3.5 Community Participation Summary

Through the successful completion of the community participation activities that were previously described, the citizens of Owasso have contributed signifi‐ cantly by expressing their ideas for the future of their city. The level of involve‐ ment has been excellent, including the on‐line campaign that Wikiplanning has indicated is the most successful of any planning project to date. The City of Owasso has subsequently launched The Ideal Owasso website to continue com‐ munication with citizens and provide a forum to express ideas for a shared vi‐ sion. Residents can continue to upload photos, complete surveys, leave com‐ ments, and view master plan data on this site.

The following statement from the City of Owasso’s website (April 2010) sum‐ marizes the community involvement process in which many citizens have in‐ vested their time: “Citizens will have the opportunity to provide input on what areas of service and opportunities are most important to them and their fami‐ lies. City staff will then take this information and use it to develop priorities for further study and action. Just as “Rome wasn’t built in a day”, the future of Owasso will be constructed using the insight of individual citizens themselves, thus ensuring Owasso continues to be an attractive, progressive community that ‐above all else‐cares for its citizens and works to ensure the city truly is their community.”

The ideas, suggestions, and concerns that have been expressed by Owasso citi‐ zens provide a sound understanding of the community’s vision for their future.

This guidance, combined with the analysis of the community’s physical assets that were reviewed in section 2 of this study, provides the foundation for the development of conceptual features that can significantly enhance Owasso’s quality of life in the decades ahead. On the pages that follow, section 4 pre‐ sents proposed quality of life features for the City of Owasso.

3 ‐ 16

4.0 Owasso Quality of Life Enhancement

SECTION 4

OWASSO QUALITY OF LIFE ENHANCEMENT

4.1 Overview of Community‐Wide Vision Excellent Schools

This chapter proposes a long‐range vision which will become the roadmap toward a future in which Owasso can attract both residents and quality jobs. This future vision also encourages sustainable living practices and provides diverse opportunities and amenities for those who live and work in Owasso. Proposed quality of life features represent the “building blocks” to create a great community.

Quality Neighborhoods

Great Churches

Recommended quality of life enhancements have been developed in response to this initiative’s goals, combined with significant participation from Owasso’s citizens and an understanding of the city’s unique opportunities and constraints. An important foundation of this plan is the rec‐ ognition that Owasso already has many community components that are recognized as being outstanding. Proposed quality of life elements build on Owasso’s excellence, adding missing features as well as continuing to make progress toward completion of initiatives that are under‐ way. It is also important to recognize that Owasso will continue to require investment in its in‐ frastructure. The ultimate goal will be for Owasso to develop a balanced strategy that inte‐ grates quality of life elements along with basic community needs.

Parks and Golf Courses

Health Care

Shopping and Dining

Owasso is often called “Oklahoma’s Premier Hometown” and as illustrated to the right, there are many reasons to support this. Education is one of the city’s best assets; the Owasso Public School System has a proven record of excellence due to the long‐term commitment by city resi‐ dents. Owasso Public Schools are among the highest ranked in Oklahoma and are ranked above average nationally. With its reputation as a good place to raise a family, Owasso’s many quality neighborhoods are also an important asset. The city benefits from a strong sense of community spirit, built upon the character of its citizens and businesses. Blessed with a deep spiritual heri‐ tage, Owasso is home to dozens of churches and faith communities.

Owasso’s long‐time desire to become a full‐service community is becoming a reality, in part be‐ cause of two state‐of‐the‐art hospitals that opened in 2006. Bailey Medical Center and St. John ‐ Owasso offer a full range of primary and specialty care, along with 24‐hour emergency cover‐ age.

4 ‐ 2

BOk Center

Close Proximity to Tulsa

Owasso has many outstanding community features that provide a great foundation for quality of life enhancements.

OWASSO QUALITY OF LIFE ENHANCEMENT

SECTION 4

Owasso residents have many recreational choices, including nu‐ merous parks, trails and athletic facilities. Youth sports and sup‐ port for school teams is a deep‐rooted tradition. The city’s golf courses include the four‐star rated Bailey Ranch Golf Club and the recently constructed Patriot Golf Club which has world‐class potential.

Owasso has experienced strong economic growth in recent years; national retailers have discovered that the city has a unique retail trade area that far exceeds its population.

Owasso’s close proximity to Tulsa is also a great advantage, with convenient access to many entertainment and cultural activities.

Regional attractions include four nationally recognized muse‐ ums, the Tulsa Zoo, 17 golf courses, the Oklahoma Aquarium, OneOK Field and the iconic BOk Center.

4 ‐ 3

SECTION 4

OWASSO QUALITY OF LIFE ENHANCEMENT

The proposed elements that make up the long‐range vision for creating the “Ideal Owasso” are organized in several broad categories:

 Parks and Recreation  Youth Sports  Pedestrian and Bicycle Improvements  Community Image and Landscaping  Community Gathering Places and Cultural Facilities  Pedestrian‐Oriented Development  Environments and Sustainability  Strong Neighborhoods

As summarized in the chart on the facing page, there are a number of spe‐ cific features that collectively work together to create an exceptional com‐ munity. The pages that follow include goals, photographs and sketches that have been developed to illustrate these proposed elements. Drawings in‐ clude “before” and “after” images that provide a photograph of current conditions at a specific site, along with an illustration of potential features and enhancements. Photographs of other communities have also been in‐ tegrated to help communicate the visual character of proposed features.

These features and strategies represent conceptual ideas that will require more detailed planning and development for implementation. The pro‐ posed quality of life enhancements include many new elements or pro‐ grams that Owasso does not currently have. Proposals also include a num‐ ber of initiatives that are already in place and should be pursued and devel‐ oped further in the years ahead.

4 ‐ 4

OWASSO QUALITY OF LIFE ENHANCEMENT

SECTION 4

PROPOSED QUALITY OF LIFE ENHANCEMENTS

PARKS AND RECREATION

COMMUNITY IMAGE AND LANDSCAPING

YOUTH SPORTS

GATHERING PLACES AND CULTURAL FACILITIES



2015 Parks Master Plan



Youth Softball



Public Art



Festival / Events Park



Passive Recreation / Family Activities



Youth Baseball





Outdoor Amphitheater



Special Needs Ball Field

Highway 169 Image Opportunities



Active Recreation / Sports Facilities



Youth Soccer

Multi‐Purpose Events Pavilion



Creative Play

Youth Football

Community Lake







Splash Pad / Water Play





Community Swimming Pool / Water Park



Off‐Leash Dog Parks



Youth‐Oriented Alternative Sports Park 

Environmental Learning / Nature Parks



Community Gateways and Landmarks Community‐Wide Landscape Development

Streetscaping and Green Streets



PEDESTRIAN AND BICYCLE IMPROVEMENTS 







Regional Trail Linkages

Healing / Therapeutic Gardens



Mixed‐Use Development

 Tulsa Tech Owasso Campus Opportunities

STRONG NEIGHBORHOODS 

Owasso Strong Neighborhood Initiative



PEDESTRIAN‐ORIENTED DEVELOPMENT

City‐Wide Pedestrian / Bicycle System Transportation Design Strategies



Multi‐purpose Regional Stormwater Detention Performing Arts Center







Community Center Facilities

ENVIRONMENT AND SUSTAINABILITY 

Community‐Wide Focus on Sustainable Principles (Go Green! Initiative)



Fitness, Wellness and Healthy Lifestyles

Downtown Revitalization

4 ‐ 5

SECTION 4

OWASSO QUALITY OF LIFE ENHANCEMENT

4.2 Parks and Recreation

2015 Parks Master Plan

REVIEW AND COORDINATE QUALITY OF LIFE GOALS WITH THE 2015 PARKS MASTER PLAN.

The 2015 Owasso Parks Master Plan established specific objectives for en‐ hancing each existing park, as well as ideas for potential new parks and new recreation opportunities. The plan provides valuable guidance for the en‐ hancement of existing parks and for the development of new parks. Re‐ view, evaluate, and refine these proposals to achieve the goal of an excep‐ tional parks and recreation system for Owasso. The following provides a brief overview of key goals and recommendations from the 2015 Owasso Parks Master Plan.

 The plan establishes guidelines for future parks development, facility development and operation / management of the parks and recreation system.

 The plan is an overall policy guide for short and long‐term development and a foundation for decision making.

 It outlines specific objectives for community recreation services in re‐ sponse to general land use patterns and community character.

 The plan advances measures and provides facilities that encourage a healthy lifestyle and appreciation of Owasso’s natural resources.

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Elm Creek Park

Centennial Park

OWASSO QUALITY OF LIFE ENHANCEMENT 

SECTION 4

Specific objectives of the 2015 Parks Master Plan include focusing efforts on developing large community parks.

Other objectives involve the creation of standards for park construction and encouraging developers to create neighborhood parks. Other major goals include the devel‐ opment of a park geared toward young adults, potentially incorporating an outdoor amphitheater. Pursuing the de‐ velopment of a waterfront project near the downtown area is recommended.



A major component of the 2015 Parks Master Plan is the development of a detailed list of potential enhancements foe Owasso’s existing parks. As illustrated in the drawing to the right, general locations are also identified for a number of new park types. These include a city‐wide trails system, mountain bike park, dog park, large water park and a rock climbing facility. A new park is proposed in the northeast quadrant of Owasso ‐ an area that is currently underserved by the parks system.

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SECTION 4

OWASSO QUALITY OF LIFE ENHANCEMENT

Passive Recreation / Family Activities

Goal: Enhance existing parks with more opportunities for passive recreation and family play.



Owasso enjoys a reputation as an outstanding community for families, and the city’s parks system can continue to be an asset as a place for passive recreation and informal play. The 2015 Owasso Parks Master Plan proposes specific enhancements for many existing parks including picnic shelters, fishing ponds, trails and support facilities such as rest‐ rooms and parking. In addition to these proposals, developing new neighborhood and community parks will also create needed places for passive recreation and informal play. Generally, passive recreation ar‐ eas are most enjoyable when they are separated from active sports.



Consider facilities to accommodate: Picnics / Cooking Out Family Fun Neighborhood Get‐Togethers Walking and Bicycling Fishing Informal Play (Run, Play, Fly Kites, Toss Frisbee, Play Games) Traditional Games (Croquet, Horseshoes, Bocce Ball, etc.) Enjoying Nature

4 ‐ 8

OWASSO QUALITY OF LIFE ENHANCEMENT

SECTION 4

Parks should provide large open spaces that function as flexible areas for informal recreation and play. It is also important for parks to preserve resources such as woodlands, creeks, wetlands and grasslands. These natural areas provide valuable environmental habitats that create opportunities to experience nature.

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SECTION 4

OWASSO QUALITY OF LIFE ENHANCEMENT Veterans Park provides an example of an undeveloped park that can be enhanced with features that create useful places for family activities. As shown to the left, the park is bisected by a large creek with eroded banks. Conceptual enhancements, illustrated be‐ low, can include a gazebo, walking trails, landscaping and a boulder‐lined creek spanned by a decorative foot bridge.

4 ‐ 10

OWASSO QUALITY OF LIFE ENHANCEMENT

SECTION 4

Centennial Park, shown to the left, has opportunities for further enhancement to make it an even more popular community park. As envisioned in the sketch below, future improvement could include a fishing dock, boating facilities, seating areas, native boul‐ ders, natural areas and a widened trail.

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SECTION 4

OWASSO QUALITY OF LIFE ENHANCEMENT

Active Recreation / Sports Facilities

Goal: Enhance existing parks with a wide variety of active recreational choices.



Owasso’s park system serves a valuable role in providing places for active sports, in addition to facilities provided by schools, churches, and the Owasso Family YMCA. The 2015 Parks Master Plan includes a wide variety of proposed facility improvements for active sports. Owasso’s parks should provide a wide variety of opportunities for active sports, with an emphasis on those that have been identified as most needed by Owasso residents.

(Youth sports facilities for softball, baseball, soccer and football are ad‐ dressed in section 4.3 of this report.)



Consider additional facilities to increase opportunities for sports such as: Sand Volleyball Courts Tennis Courts Basketball / Multi‐Purpose Hard Surface Courts Park Roads and Trails for Cycling and Running Events Disc Golf Courses Rodeo Arena Facility Enhancements (McCarty Park) Multi‐Purpose Practice Fields for Youth Sports

Park trails and roadways can accommodate a variety of running and bicycle events.

4 ‐ 12

OWASSO QUALITY OF LIFE ENHANCEMENT

SECTION 4

Active sports such as tennis, volleyball, basketball and cycling should continue to be an important component of Owasso’s parks and recreation system. Providing well‐maintained sports facilities also helps create an active, healthy community.

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SECTION 4

OWASSO QUALITY OF LIFE ENHANCEMENT

Creative Play

Goal: Enhance Owasso’s parks with creative play opportunities.



Play areas should incorporate interactive play structures that stimulate the imagination and promote fitness. Provide play areas and appropri‐ ate equipment for children of all age groups that is designed specifically for their changing physical and social skills.



Play areas provide an excellent opportunity for innovative themes that add excitement and interest.



Consider the addition of natural elements such as large rocks or tree trunks to create new forms of recreation that allow kids to experience nature.



Ensure that existing and new play areas have enough shade for kids and adults (gazebos / pavilions, fabric structures and trees).

Owasso’s Stone Canyon development has created an innovative natural play area, using a simple grass slope and large limestone boulders.



Take full advantage of play areas as places to incorporate color, art, sculptural elements and innovative signage.



Ensure that all play areas meet the requirements for universal accessi‐ bility.



Provide recreational equipment that is sustainable and manufactured through environmentally‐friendly processes. Select equipment that pro‐ vides value in terms of life‐cycle costs / long‐term maintenance needs.

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Shade is a very important element for creating play areas that are enjoyable during hot summer months.

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SECTION 4

Playgrounds can incorporate natural elements and climbing features.

Play areas provide a great opportunity to integrate themed elements that are whimsical and stimulate the imagination of children. Color, art and

sculpture can also enhance the play experience.

Play equipment should be interactive and capable of accommodating all age groups. As shown in the photographs above, kids enjoy innovative features that allow them to use their imagination and physical skills.

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Splash Pad / Water Play

Goal: Develop additional splash pads / water play‐ grounds to enhance Owasso’s parks.



Develop more water play areas to complement the existing Rayola Park splash pad. Strategically locate new splash pads in Owasso’s parks to provide convenient access to all neighborhoods. Consider developing at least one “destination level” water play area (similar to the scale of the Tulsa River Parks 41st Street Plaza and Playground).



Potential Features: Creative / Interactive Environment Colorful Paving Patterns High‐Quality Equipment / Paint Finishes to Minimize Long‐Term Maintenance Expenses Shade Structures / Trees Reuse Water Runoff for Irrigation Use in Parks (Capture Water in Below‐Ground Storage Tank) Include Diverse Equipment and Water Effects Play Zones for Several Age Groups

Rayola Park Splash Pad

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SECTION 4

Splash pads provide a popular form of recreation that can be expanded in Owasso beyond the current facility in Rayola Park. The play experience is accentuated through themed designs, colorful paving and a wide variety of above‐ground features and in‐ground spray nozzles. Typically, a splash pad is manually activated by kids, beginning an automatic cycle that operates all play features in a programmed sequence.

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OWASSO QUALITY OF LIFE ENHANCEMENT

Community Swimming Pool / Water Park

Goal: Provide Owasso with an outdoor community swimming pool to fill a major gap in recreational opportunities.



A community swimming pool / water park was a highly requested item from Owasso citizens in response to the Wikiplanning survey questions “If you could change one thing about Owasso, what would it be?”. To address this need, consider opportunities for construction of an outdoor swimming pool or water park in Owasso.



Create a state‐of‐the‐art pool or water park with an innovative design that can include features for all ages ‐ zero depth / beach entry, varying pool depth, slides and water toys, large deck areas and shade structures.



Explore funding options so that the pool’s construction and long‐term operation are not necessarily funded through tax dollars / city budgets.



Explore opportunities for the City of Owasso to partner with other or‐ ganizations (YMCA, Owasso Public Schools, etc.). Consider a scenario where an expanded YMCA indoor pool can serve needs for competitive / lap swimming. The drawing to the right illustrates a conceptual plan for an outdoor “lazy river” water park that is proposed as part of expansion plans for the Owasso Family YMCA.

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Illustration of proposed Owasso Family YMCA Phase III Expansion, which includes an outdoor “lazy river” water park adjacent to the current indoor swimming pool. (Drawing by Selser Schaefer Architects)

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Over the years, swimming pools and water parks continue to be a popular summertime destination for children of all ages.

Pools have evolved from simple rectangles to innovative styles that include colorful play features, slides, flumes with moving

streams and wade‐in “beach” entries. Spacious deck areas and plentiful shade structures are also important design elements.

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Off‐Leash Dog Parks Goal: Develop one or more off‐leash dog parks.



The development of off‐leash dog parks in the United States is a rapidly growing trend and is becoming a popular amenity for communities of all sizes in Oklahoma. As of 2009, there were dog parks in Norman, Del City, Mustang, Yukon, Edmond, Oklahoma City. Tulsa has opened several dog parks with plans to open more. A benefit of these “bark parks” is healthy socialization between dogs (as well as dog owners). Safety consideration should be top priority in designing dog parks, with clearly defined rules and guidelines. Large breeds are typically separated from smaller ones by dou‐ ble gated fences. It is critical for dog owners and clubs to be actively in‐ volved in on‐going management of the parks for best success.



A dog park is currently planned for construction in the southeast corner of McCarty Park. This location offers the benefits of being able to share exist‐ ing parking and restroom facilities. The park will include a large breed area with a swimming pond, as well as a separate area for small dogs. Proposed features also include fencing and small berms for interest.



Desirable Features for Dog Parks Include: ‐ Perimeter Fencing ‐ Double Gate System ‐ Separate Areas for Large and Small Dogs ‐ Parking and Restroom ‐ Big Trees and Shade Structures (Shade is Essential) ‐ Water (Hydrant and Drinking Fountain) ‐ Litter Stations ‐ Well‐Defined Rules / Signage ‐ Irrigation System to Aid Turfgrass Growth

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SECTION 4

An off‐leash dog park would create a unique recreational opportunity in Owasso. Dog parks are highly social for dog owners as well as for their pets; they are a great place for people to meet and interact.

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Youth‐Oriented Alternative Sports Park

Goal: Develop an “Xtreme” park for new types of recreation geared toward Owasso’s youth / young adults.



As proposed in the Owasso 2015 Parks Master Plan, consider the devel‐ opment of a park geared toward young adults. This park could poten‐ tially have an outdoor amphitheater for performances by local artists, similar to The Rivers Edge performance area in Tulsa’s River Parks. An alternative sports park could be developed as a new park, or include facilities in more than one park.



Consider innovative activities / facilities that include: Mountain Bike Trails BMX Bike Courses (Non‐Motorized) Skate Park (Update or Replace Current Skate Park) Disc Golf Climbing Walls Other Alternative Sports

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Disc golf has grown in popularity and is very economical in terms of construction costs. Centennial Park currently provides an 18‐hole course. Courses are most interesting when they incorporate natural features such as creeks and wooded areas.

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SECTION 4

Creating a park that is geared toward younger age groups is one of the primary proposals in Owasso’s 2015 Parks Master Plan.

A new park, dedicated to alternative sports, would complement existing recreational facilities and could become a major destination.

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Environmental Learning / Nature Parks

Goal: Provide Natural Areas that create environ‐ mental habitat and educational opportunities.









Explore potential for natural habitat areas in new parks, as well as in existing parks such as Elm Creek Park and Centennial Park. Evaluate locations for environmental learning on existing school properties.

Provide environmental learning opportunities that will benefit Owasso Public School children, as well as other age groups.

Consider features that may include nature trails, interpretive signage, diverse habitats (prairie, woodland, water, wetlands) and a nature center building.

Take advantage of Owasso’s close proximity to Oxley Nature Center / Mohawk Park and Redbud Valley.

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As illustrated in the photographs above, the Oxley Nature Center in nearby Mohawk Park is an environmentally diverse nature park. Because this beautiful 800‐acre park is so convenient to Owasso, it offers a great learning resource and place to interact with nature.

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SECTION 4

Opportunities should be explored to incorporate natural habitat areas and environmental learning into Owasso’s existing and future parks. Nature trails can be carefully integrated through habitat areas, with interpretive signage added to communicate information about native vegetation, wildlife and other features.

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OWASSO QUALITY OF LIFE ENHANCEMENT

Healing Gardens / Meditation Parks

Goal: Enrich Owasso’s quality of life by providing scenic new garden‐like environments that offer therapeutic benefits .



One of the objectives of the 2015 Parks Master Plan is to develop two meditation parks in close proximity to existing hospitals (Bailey Medical Center and St. John Hospital). The creation of these new parks would be a great health and wellness benefit to the hospitals, as well as for the community at large. Evaluate opportunities to partner with these existing medical facilities for locational decisions, planning / design and construction. Elements to consider including are:

Private, Secluded Areas for Reflection, Meditation and Prayer Fully Accessible Design for All Levels of Ability Security / Fencing “Hands‐On” Gardening Opportunities Looped Walking Paths Site Features to assist Physical Therapy and Mental Stimulation Landscape Materials for Year‐round Interest (“Old‐fashioned”

Varieties, Butterfly‐attracting Varieties and Aromatic plants)

 Develop a scenic natural park in Owasso, potentially in conjunction with a meditation park / healing garden. The park should have out‐ standing natural beauty and scenic qualities. Tulsa’s Woodward park is a good example of the potential park’s visual character and features.

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Tulsa’s Lineaus Garden (top) and Woodward Park are beautiful natural parks that are well‐known landmarks. Lineaus Garden is also an educational resource for the Tulsa Master Gardener program.

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As shown in these examples, healing / therapeutic gardens can combine natural beauty, art elements and hardscaping to create a wonderful outdoor environment.

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4.3 Youth Sports

The following section of this report provides conceptual illustrations and descriptions of ideal facilities for Owasso’s youth sports programs. The pro‐ posals for youth softball, baseball, soccer and football define the general features and visual character to create state‐of‐the‐art facilities for each sport. Because there are many similarities in the way these sports function, many of the proposed features for each sport are the same. Wherever pos‐ sible, support facilities such as restrooms and parking can be shared.

(Specific numbers of fields and field sizes have not been included.)

Currently, the Owasso Sports Park North accommodates the majority of the existing fields for youth baseball, softball and soccer. With the recent 74‐ acre expansion of the park, additional study is recommended to determine the most beneficial strategy for integration of future and existing fields.

This discussion should also consider the possibility of using other sites to meet the long‐term needs for all sports.

Youth Softball

Goal: Develop a first‐class youth softball complex for leagues and tournaments.



Elements to consider: ‐ Tournament Level Lighting ‐ High Quality Concessions / Restrooms ‐ Common Areas with Open Space, Play Equipment and Picnic Areas ‐ Quality Fields (Irrigation, Fencing / Backstops and Good Drainage) ‐ Practice Fields ‐ Shade for Bleachers, Dugouts and Common Areas

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‐ Tournament Amenities / Room for Tents ‐ Proximity to Major Roads, Restaurants and Hotels ‐ One Championship Replica Field ‐ Paved Parking ‐ One Special Needs Field ‐ Durable Shade Trees

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As illustrated in the sketch to the left, a well‐designed parking lot can include a drop‐off area for players and family members. As shown below, providing shade structure over dugouts and bleachers is of great importance to the players’ and spectators’ comfort.

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OWASSO QUALITY OF LIFE ENHANCEMENT Centrally located playground areas are an important amenity, providing a safe place for young siblings. Shade for these areas is also essential, and can be ac‐ complished using trees or overhead canopies. Attractive multi‐function buildings are also a key element of a great softball complex, potentially com‐ bining concessions, restrooms and shaded seating areas.

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SECTION 4

Youth Baseball

Goal: Develop a first‐class, tournament level baseball complex.



Elements to consider: Tournament Level Lighting High Quality Concessions / Restrooms Batting Cages / Practice Fields Common Areas with Open Space, Play Equipment and Picnic Areas Quality Fields (Irrigation, Fencing / Backstops and Good Drainage) Shade for Bleachers, Dugouts and Common Areas Tournament Amenities / Room for Tents Proximity to Major Roads, Restaurants and Hotels One Championship Replica Field Paved Parking One Special Needs Field Durable Shade Trees

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Above, a conceptual illustration shows the potential to create a 5‐plex of baseball fields.

This creates greater efficiency in sharing common facilities such as restrooms, conces‐ sions and playground areas. This “ideal” complex also integrates open lawn areas, shade trees and generous sidewalks to create an enjoyable experience for everyone.

Parking and a large drop‐off zone are also conveniently located adjacent to the fields.

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SECTION 4

Unique amenities and site features help to create an image of quality. Above, a site plan illustrates a grand entry that replicates a baseball field through pavement design and concrete “baseball” bollards.

Creating an outstanding baseball complex begins with quality fields that are well‐fenced, properly sloped, irrigated and have durable turfgrass. Spacious plazas and shaded concessions / seating areas are also elements that create a user‐friendly atmosphere.

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Youth Soccer

Goal: Develop a first‐class tournament level soccer complex.



Potential site features: High Quality Concessions / Restrooms Common Areas with Open Space, Play Equipment and Picnic Areas High Quality Fields (Irrigation, Good Drainage, Turf and Fencing) Proximity to Major Roads, Restaurants and Hotels Championship Field / Tournament Amenities Good Paved Parking and Road System Practice Fields (Can Be Dispersed Throughout City) Potential for Indoor Soccer Facility



Consider potential location for a new soccer complex in Stone Canyon (would require widening of 76th Street for good traffic flow).

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A soccer complex in Overland Park, Kansas provides an example of a sports facility with well designed amenities.

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As shown above, an indoor soccer facility can potentially be integrated with outdoor fields.

During tournaments, it is also a great advantage to have places to shop and eat nearby.

Practice fields for soccer can be accommodated in multi‐purpose practice areas that can be shared between football, baseball and softball teams (bottom left).

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Special Needs Youth Sports

Goal: Develop a special needs field to allow children of all abilities to play softball and baseball. Provide soccer programs to accommodate children with special needs.

Baseball / Softball  Develop one shared special needs field to accommodate players of all abilities. Features should include a rubberized surface and wheelchair accessible dugouts.

 Consider being part of the 240 Miracle League organizations. Based on the idea that “every kid deserves the chance to play baseball,” the Mira‐ cle League removes the barriers that keep children with disabilities off the baseball field. Since completion of the first field in 2000, this inno‐ vative program has served over 200,000 children and young adults with disabilities.

Soccer  Consider initiating a program similar to the TOPSoccer (The Outreach Program for Soccer) for kids with special needs. This program pairs kids with physical and/or cognitive needs with community volunteers. TOP‐ Soccer is an outreach program of the U.S. Soccer Association that is open to all kids with a physical or mental disability between the ages of 6 ‐ 18.

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Programs like TOPSoccer make it possible for every child to have the opportunity to enjoy playing soccer.

The experience is rewarding to the athletes and the community volunteers.

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SECTION 4

Accessible fields for baseball and softball are custom designed with specific features that address potential safety hazards for players in wheelchairs or walkers. Fields that have been developed by the Miracle League typically include a cushioned rubberized surface, wheel‐

chair accessible dugouts and a flat surface to eliminate any barriers to wheelchair‐bound or visually impaired players.

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Youth Football

Goal: Develop a first‐class football complex.



Current Fields: Owasso Sports Park North (Flag) Ator Park Owasso Public Schools Sites



Elements to consider: Quality Playing Fields (Irrigation, Good Turf, Drainage System, Fencing) Lighting Bleachers Common Areas with Playground Equipment Good Paved Parking / Circulation One Artificial Turf Field for Bad Weather Play Practice Fields Championship Field



Consider the optimum relationship between flag football fields (currently at the Sports Park) and tackle football fields. In conjunction with other youth sports, evaluate the best scenario to utilize the existing and expanded site areas of Owasso Sports Park (North and South).

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OWASSO QUALITY OF LIFE ENHANCEMENT

Quality fields are an essential component of a good football complex.

Basic elements needed include tournament‐level lighting, vinyl‐coated fencing, irrigation and well‐maintained turfgrass.

SECTION 4

State‐of‐the‐art football complexes include common areas with amenities such as play‐ grounds, pavilions and hardscape areas.

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4.4 Pedestrian and Bicycle Improvements

Regional Trail Linkages

Goal: Plan Owasso to maximize the value of regional trail linkages (per INCOG Regional Trail System Plan).



Coordinate the INCOG Regional trail Plan with Owasso’s Land Use Mas‐ ter Plan. As illustrated on the facing page, the Tulsa Regional Trail Sys‐ tem Plan includes several trail linkages that connect Owasso with the re‐ gional system. Trail linkages include the Owasso Mohawk Trail, which is planned to extend along the west edge of Owasso north to Collinsville.



Short term goal: Create a new trailhead at 76th Street (west of down‐ town) to provide convenient access for Owasso residents to the regional trail network. (The Owasso Mohawk Trail and Bikeway construction was scheduled to begin in 2010.)



Acquire trail easements to allow for future trail construction.



Modify the subdivision regulations to preserve / protect trail corridors.

The Taychas Trail Trailhead in Frisco, Texas is an example of a well designed entrance to a multi‐use trail.

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OWASSO QUALITY OF LIFE ENHANCEMENT

SECTION 4

The Indian Nation Council of Governments’ (INCOG) trail network is an outstanding quality of life feature for all communities within the Tulsa metropolitan area. The trails plan includes multi‐use trails, which are generally paved 10 ft. wide for use by pedestrians and cy‐ clists (separated from vehicular traffic). The trails plan also includes bikeways, which are bicycle routes that use existing streets that have some improvements to accommodate bikes. The inset above illustrates an important linkage to Owasso that will be constructed in the near future. As shown, a combination of on‐street bikeways and multi‐use trails will extend north from Mohawk Park along East 86th Street and Mingo Road. This linkage will connect with Owasso at 76th Street, ending near the SKO railroad tracks.

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OWASSO QUALITY OF LIFE ENHANCEMENT

City‐Wide Pedestrian / Bicycle System

On‐Street Bike Routes and Sidewalks

Goal: Create a complete city‐wide bike / pedestrian sys‐ tem that is safe and provides excellent connectivity.



Provide additional sidewalks and bike lanes along Owasso’s arterial streets to fill in missing walk linkages. Provide safe pedestrian and bike circulation along collector and local streets.



For new street projects, incorporate pedestrian and bike needs early in the design process. Implement “Complete the Streets” strategies that meet the needs of all modes of travel. Ensure that all pedestrian and bike needs are incorporated into the new Highway 169 project design.



Incorporate state‐of‐the‐art transportation design strategies such as bike boxes, sharrows, etc.



Provide universal access for all bike / pedestrian pathways.

Owasso’s connectivity and quality of life can be greatly enhances with city streets that safely accommodate pedestrians and bicycles.

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OWASSO QUALITY OF LIFE ENHANCEMENT

SECTION 4

Currently, the city’s sidewalk system does not allow adequate east‐west circula‐ tion along arterial streets that cross under Highway 169 at six locations. The 76th Street underpass is shown to the left as an example of typical conditions. How‐ ever, the planned construction project for the highway will provide an excellent opportunity to address this challenge. As shown in the concept below, new high‐ way bridges over Owasso’s arterial streets can be designed to safely integrate all modes of travel.

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OWASSO QUALITY OF LIFE ENHANCEMENT

Multi‐Use Trails

Goal: Provide multi‐use trails throughout the commu‐ nity that connect major use areas.



Design and implement a continuous trail system in coordination with Owasso’s Land Use Master Plan and INCOG’s Regional Trails Plan.



Provide trail linkages between neighborhoods, schools, parks, shopping areas and other major community destinations.



Create a state‐of‐the‐art trail system comparable to Tulsa’s River Parks recently renovated trails (11th to 71st Streets). Provide wide single trails or dual trails, where feasible, for better bike and pedestrian com‐ patibility.



Provide land dedication for areas along planned greenways, particularly along Ranch Creek. (Consider conservation easements and the Trust for Public Land for tax incentives.)

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Ranch Creek (shown near its crossing with 86th Street, provides a potential trail alignment along the west side of Owasso.

OWASSO QUALITY OF LIFE ENHANCEMENT

SECTION 4

As illustrated in the two photographs directly above, there are existing trails through Elm Creek Park (top) and Centennial Park (bottom). These and other existing park trails can be connected with future trail linkages throughout Owasso to form a complete network.

Exceptional trail systems incorporate amenities with the natural environment. Attractive rest areas, pedestrian bridges and well designed trail pavement add to the enjoyment of users.

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OWASSO QUALITY OF LIFE ENHANCEMENT

Transportation Design Strategies

Goal: Continue to improve Owasso’s street systems as an important component of overall quality of life. Pro‐ vide an increased focus on integrating all modes of travel, including pedestrians and cyclists.



Fund and implement street and intersection projects in coordination with Owasso’s Strategic Capital Improvements Plan / Capital Improve‐ ments Committee.



For all new street projects, design to allow all modes of travel (cars, bikes, pedestrians and transit) in accordance with the “Complete the Streets” techniques.



Incorporate streetscaping with all arterial street projects.



Consider medians and boulevards where appropriate, and avoid long, straight roads and unattractive streets. Incorporate traffic calming measures and retrofit problem areas with round‐a‐bouts, speed tables, chicanes or other effective techniques.

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Most streets throughout the United States have been designed almost exclusively for the automobile with little thought given to the needs of pedestrians and bicyclists. However, there is a growing movement in transportation design for safely accommodating bicy‐ clists, pedestrians and automobiles into a single, inte‐ grated system. One rapidly growing initiative, known as “Complete the Streets,” is being advanced by a broad coalition of advocates and transportation pro‐ fessionals (National Complete Streets Coalition). It is being proven that all modes of travel can coexist in an urban environment that helps create sustainable, walkable communities.

OWASSO QUALITY OF LIFE ENHANCEMENT

SECTION 4

Owasso’s transportation system is a vital part of the community’s infrastructure, which will require on‐going investment for mainte‐ nance as well as improvements projects. Future street projects should include innovative strategies that create safe, aesthetically pleasing streets that accommodate all forms of travel. To address areas where vehicle speeds are problems in neighborhoods, traffic calming techniques such as traffic circles should be considered.

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As shown in this view looking north, 129th East Avenue has been recently improved to provide four travel lanes and a center turn lane. A sidewalk has also been constructed several feet from the street.

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SECTION 4

The perspective above illustrates conceptual ideas for enhancing Owasso’s arterial streets. This image shows the same view of 129th East Avenue from the facing page, with proposed strategies to create an attractive street that works well for transit, automobiles, bicy‐ clists and pedestrians. The design includes a wide sidewalk that is separated from the roadway for safety and to create space for street trees and decorative lighting. A landscaped center median is proposed that also transitions to a center turn lane where needed.

(Overhead electrical lines ideally should be buried below ground.)

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OWASSO QUALITY OF LIFE ENHANCEMENT

4.5 Community Image and Landscaping

Community Image and Appearance Opportunities

Goal: Create a livable community with exceptional civic spaces, architecture, streetscaping, art and pedestrian‐ oriented developments.



A community’s image is a significant factor in the perception of its over‐ all quality and desirability as a place to live or work. This perception, including both positive and negative elements, is created by a combina‐ tion of elements: buildings, streets and highways, landscaping, green spaces and landmarks. Owasso should strive to present a high‐level im‐ age that clearly conveys the city’s pride and quality of life.



Create and reinforce current city standards for landscaping, site devel‐ opment and architecture to enhance Owasso’s image. Site and archi‐ tectural standards are particularly important for undeveloped areas, including locations near the Tulsa Tech Owasso Campus.



Encourage citizen involvement with programs to enhance Owasso’s vis‐ ual environment. (Adopt‐a‐park / highway for litter control, adopt‐a‐ planting bed, tree planting projects, fence repair, etc.)



Consider establishing a “beautification patrol” to make monthly reports on negative / positive appearance issues in the city (litter, mowing / weeds, illegal signs, etc.).

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Photo Credit: Jamie Jamieson

OWASSO QUALITY OF LIFE ENHANCEMENT

SECTION 4

Mixed‐use developments that are pedestrian‐friendly and well designed can help enhance a community’s image.

Pleasing architecture, landscaping and site amenities can work together cohesively to create a memorable impression.

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OWASSO QUALITY OF LIFE ENHANCEMENT There are opportunities to enhance Owasso’s image and identity throughout the commu‐ nity. These opportunities are most important to take advantage of in highly visible loca‐ tions. As an example, the existing drainageway ( shown at left) immediately south of the YMCA has potential to be transformed into a positive feature. As illustrated below, this creek can be improved with large segmental block walls that create a stone appearance.

Other enhancements could include new trails, trees, native plantings and small waterfalls.

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OWASSO QUALITY OF LIFE ENHANCEMENT

SECTION 4

The large concrete drainage structures that are northwest of the Highway 169 / 76th Street intersection provide another opportunity for enhancement. As conceptually illustrated below, this highly visible area can retain its flood control functions in a much more aesthetically pleasing fashion. The existing drainage structure can be overlaid with stone veneer to create a bridge effect. Natural boulders and landscap‐ ing can also be used to create a scenic water feature.

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OWASSO QUALITY OF LIFE ENHANCEMENT

Public Art

Goal: Continue and expand public art initiatives to en‐ hance Owasso’s cultural environment and appearance.



Build on the success of current City of Owasso art programs (The Timmy and Cindy Project).



Continue to encourage art in public spaces as well as on private devel‐ opments. Take advantage of Oklahoma’s Art in Public Places Program, which dedicates 1.5% of the cost of state construction projects that cost at least $250,000. Develop distinctive landmarks and community iden‐ tity elements that reflect Owasso’s unique heritage and community character. Promote diverse expressions of art.



Explore opportunities for temporary art displays. Consider opportuni‐ ties to actively involve schools / youthful creativity.



Consider the establishment of a sculpture garden in Owasso.



Provide dedicated places for temporary art displays.

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The photographs above reflect the diversity of public art.

OWASSO QUALITY OF LIFE ENHANCEMENT

SECTION 4

Owasso has a number of outstanding art pieces; primarily bronze sculptures. Art can be found in parks throughout the community, including the widely recognized Timmy and Cindy sculptures.

The Timmy and Cindy Project is a public arts initiative that utilizes bronze castings of an active young boy and girl. As of 2008, 33 castings were in place at strategic locations throughout the community. Purchase of the castings is funded by individuals, families or organizations. Site selection is made by city staff with

assistance from the Arts and Humanities Council of Owasso.

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OWASSO QUALITY OF LIFE ENHANCEMENT

Highway 169 Image Opportunities

Highway 169 Design / Aesthetics

Goal: Maximize aesthetic opportunities for the new U.S. Highway 169 widening project (56th Street to 116th Street).



The new project for improvements to U.S. Highway 169 presents a unique opportunity to establish an excellent image for this high‐visibility corridor. This project will include the widening of the highway to six lanes between 56th Street North and 116th Street North. Owasso has great visibility from this six‐mile stretch of highway through the heart of the city, and the design and aesthetics of this project will impact the community’s image for many decades.

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Proactively partner with the Oklahoma Department of Transportation during the design process. Encourage the preparation of an aesthetic study for the project to ensure attractive design for bridges, lighting and landscape elements. (As an example, see the I‐44 Aesthetic Enhance‐ ment Report, Tulsa ‐ December 2007.)

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Ensure that the new highway design provides sufficient space for bike / pedestrian circulation for arterial streets that cross the highway.

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Limits for the Highway 169 Widening Project

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NOTE: Illustrations for Highway 169 are conceptual and are intended to depict potential design character and appearance only. Final layout of bridges and roadways will be determined during preparation of construction plans for the Highway 169 (56th Street to 116th Street) project.

As shown in this character sketch, the bridge structures can be designed to have nice form, texture and color.

It is also important for the roadway and bridge design to safely accommodate pedestrians and bicyclists.

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OWASSO QUALITY OF LIFE ENHANCEMENT NOTE: Illustrations for Highway 169 are conceptual and are intended to depict potential design character and appearance only. Final layout of bridges and roadways will be determined during preparation of construction plans for the Highway 169 (56th Street to 116th Street) project.

The widening project for Highway 169 through Owasso will require the removal and reconstruction of bridges over arterial streets. The conceptual illustration above indicates the potential character and visual qualities of these new bridges. Landscaping and lighting can also create a positive image.

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The design of highways and bridges can have a major ef‐ fect on a community’s image. These illustrations were created for the I‐44 Aesthetic Enhancement Report, which provides design guidance for the segment of I‐44 currently under construction in Tulsa (Yale Avenue to Riverside Drive). Conceptual guidelines were created for design of bridges, walls, signage, lighting and landscaping. The pro‐ posed concepts are being implemented, including walls and gateway markers that were inspired by Tulsa’s Art Deco style.

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Highway 169 Corridor Landscaping

Goal: In coordination with the new Highway 169 con‐ struction, create a high impact landscaped corridor.

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Highway 169 is in most cases the first impression one has when entering Owasso. Its current alignment through the center of the city is highly visible and contributes significantly to Owasso’s image. The new high‐ way construction between 56th Street and 116th Street creates a special opportunity for a sustainable and appealing landscape treatment.

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New landscape design concepts should focus on large‐scale tree mass‐ ings for greatest impact. Low maintenance plantings at bridges can also be attractive, with the added benefit of reducing hard‐to‐mow grass slopes. Where appropriate, consider adding areas of native grasses / plantings for a portion of the highway right‐of‐way.

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All plant materials should be tough and drought resistant. Long‐term maintenance needs should be considered in budgets, including provi‐ sions for watering through establishment of plants.

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Use landscape plantings to screen unsightly areas adjacent to the high‐ way corridor.

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The Highway 169 corridor bisects Owasso, providing a great opportunity for landscape enhancement.

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Adjacent to the Tulsa International Airport, Highway 11 provides an example of effective landscape treatment. The majority of the landscape plantings shown in these photos were installed approximately three years ago to enhance the community’s image for arriv‐ ing visitors. Landscaping along the highway right‐of‐way focused on large‐scale groupings of evergreen and deciduous trees. Plantings also included large beds of durable grasses and shrubs on the steep banks near the Virgin Street bridge. These landscape strategies should be considered as potential design concepts for Owasso’s Highway 169 corridor.

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As shown in this view looking north along Highway 169, the existing right‐of‐way is very wide and in many areas provides very little vis‐ ual interest. The planned expansion of the highway to 6 lanes is planned to the inside of the existing roadway. In addition to the unat‐ tractiveness of some areas of the highway, there is on‐going expense by ODOT to mow these large spaces. The sketch on the following page illustrates this same view with a proposed landscape concept that would significantly impact the roadway corridor.

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As illustrated in this conceptual landscape strategy for Highway 169, there are opportunities to significantly improve the appearance of this highly visible road‐ way that runs through Owasso. The proposed concept defines a new boundary for mowed bermuda grass, which would remain adjacent to the roadway. The outer edges of the right‐of‐way would be planted with native grasses (see pho‐ tos to the right) as well as durable trees. The mowed grass areas could be

planted with wildflowers to add seasonal impact.

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OWASSO QUALITY OF LIFE ENHANCEMENT The photograph to the left shows an aerial view of the existing Highway 169 interchange with 116th Street. This interchange is the northern limit for the planned highway widening project. The sketch below, showing this same view, is an example of a new landscape treatment that is similar to the proposal on the previous page. This concept includes defining signifi‐ cant areas of native grasses / trees, which provides visual benefits and also has the advantage of reducing the acreage that would require mowing. Na‐ tive plantings are also proposed adjacent to the new bridge.

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As shown in the photograph to the right, Highway 169 bridges through Owasso have been built with expansive concrete slope walls. These large concrete slabs create unattractive views for the many cars that pass under these bridges. The planned highway construction project will include new bridge structures, and a great opportunity to replace concrete slope walls with a more aesthetically appealing solution. As shown in the concept be‐ low, slopes adjacent to the bridges can be terraced using decorative retain‐ ing walls. Landscaping for these terraces can include drought‐resistant grasses, shrubs and trees to enhance views.

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Community Gateways and Landmarks

Goal: Enhance Owasso’s image through the addition of signature gateway elements and community landmarks.

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Establish large‐scale gateway elements / signage at the city’s north and south entries on Highway 169.

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Consider potential treatments to the railroad bridge over Highway 169 near Bird Creek to enhance the entry experience into Owasso for north‐ bound traffic. In addition, screen unsightly views (east side of Highway 169) for traffic arriving from the south.

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Incorporate gateway elements and other enhancement features at new Highway 169 interchanges, in conjunction with the planned highway construction project.

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Establish appropriately scaled gateways and signage for other commu‐ nity arrival points (76th Street, etc.)

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Community landmarks may include art / sculpture, water features, sign‐ age, architectural monuments and major landscape features.

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The Owasso Downtown District Master Plan (2001) included concepts for creating gateway elements.

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Community gateways and landmark elements can take many forms, including well designed bridge structures, signage walls, architectural markers, water features, and artwork. These features, which should reflect the unique style and character of a community, can help create a strong identity and positive image for visitors.

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OWASSO QUALITY OF LIFE ENHANCEMENT Vehicles travelling north on Highway 169 pass under a railroad bridge as they initially gain a panoramic view of Owasso. As shown in the concept below, this arrival experience can be en‐ hanced with decorative treatment of the bridge structure. This enhancement can include elements such as stone veneer over the concrete columns, signage, new paint and an arched steel truss.

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The photograph above shows the current condi‐ tions at the north bound 76th Street off‐ramp from Highway 169. This intersection provides a large area and opportunities to create a signifi‐ cant gateway into the community. (The planned highway construction project may alter the align‐ ment of the ramps in this area.) Several concepts have been developed to illustrate the possible character of a new community gateway feature.

The first concept features a large scale Native American sculpture, inspired by Owasso’s “End of the Trail” heritage, along with a signage wall and high impact landscaping. A second concept inte‐ grates a natural water feature, landscaping, natu‐ ral stone, and signage. The gateway includes sculptures of several rams to reflect the Owasso Public School’s mascot. A key element of both concepts is the goal to create a feature of appro‐ priate size that matches the scale of the site and the speed of exiting vehicles.

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OWASSO QUALITY OF LIFE ENHANCEMENT The interchange at 126th Street North and Highway 169 is an excellent opportunity to create a significant gateway into Owasso for south‐bound vehicles entering the city. As shown to the left, this interchange includes very large right‐of‐way areas at each corner. Currently, this space offers little visual interest and no identity for Owasso. Several concepts have been developed to illustrate potential landscape‐ oriented gateway ideas. The first concept, shown below, shows excavation along the existing drainage ways to create wetlands that are surrounded by natural plant‐ ings. Potential benefits include the natural filtering of stormwater runoff, reduced mowing expense and attractive views. “Welcome to Owasso” signage could also be added to the bridge structure.

There are many examples throughout the state of wetlands that are incorporated within or adjacent to highways. The photo immediately above illustrates large ponds along Hefner Parkway in Oklahoma City.

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A second concept for development of a potential “north” community gateway at 126th Street is shown in the sketch above.

The expansive mowed grass areas within the Highway 169 ramps can accommodate large areas of native plantings and trees.

This concept also includes widening the existing drainage channels to create a natural character and add stormwater capacity.

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Community‐Wide Landscape Development

Goal: Maximize landscape development to create a more beautiful and sustainable city.

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Encourage landscape enhancement of: ‐ Individual Homes ‐ Neighborhoods ‐ Multi‐Family Housing ‐ Streets and Highways ‐ Commercial / Office Developments ‐ Parks and Civic Spaces ‐ Schools

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Take steps to become an official “Tree City USA.” Continue to partner with the Up with Trees organization. Encourage participation in their Citizen Forester program and Apache Foundation Tree Grant Program.

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Encourage citizen involvement with: ‐ Adopt‐a‐Park ‐ Adopt‐a‐Planting Bed ‐ Adopt‐a‐Highway ‐ Adopt‐a‐School Promote community‐wide tree planting to take advantage of their many environmental and visual benefits.

Develop landscape standards to include proper height trees for street areas with overhead power lines.

Promote the use of well‐adapted native plant materials to create a more sustainable community.

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“The best time to plant a tree is 20 years ago.

The second best time to plant a tree is now!”

There may be no more effective way to substantially enhance Owasso’s visual image and environment than a community‐wide effort to plant trees.

Although it make several decades for full impact, even a small tree will mature to enhance property values, create wonderful shade and produce clean air.

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Landscape development is important in every segment of a community, beginning with individual homes and neighborhoods.

Well designed and properly maintained landscaping can also enhance shopping areas, office developments, business parks, streets and highways. Effective city‐wide landscaping has a major impact on a community’s image and environmental quality.

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Conceptual Illustration of a Typical Arterial Street Underpass along U.S. Highway 169

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Landscaping along the Highway 169 corridor through Owasso can create an image of excellence and sustainability for the community. As shown in the conceptual illustration to the left, massings of large, durable trees create an attractive appear‐ ance that is in scale with sight distances and responds to the speed of the vehicles. Landscaping can also be an effective technique to buffer areas along roadways that are visually clut‐ tered or unattractive. Groupings of evergreen trees are gener‐ ally the best way to improve views and screen unsightly areas.

As shown in the sketch below, where overhead utility lines are present it is important to select tree varieties that will not grow to a height that would require pruning (“topping”) to avoid con‐ flicts.

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Streetscaping and Green Streets

Goal: Enhance Owasso’s environmental and visual quality through significant landscape treatments of city streets.

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Create a streetscaping / green streets plan to identify major thorough‐ fares that can be enhanced with sustainable landscaping.

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Incorporate streetscaping or beautification elements on all new streets and transportation projects. Develop streetscape standards for all street classifications. (Include lighting, landscape materials, site furnish‐ ings and paving materials.)

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Plan for long‐term maintenance of streetscaping. Include irrigation for all new landscaping. Begin to plan for reuse of graywater for irrigation.

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Identify opportunities for new streets where boulevards and medians can be developed with sustainable landscaping.

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Make every effort to bury electrical and phone lines below grade on new street projects. In addition to the visual benefits and ability to plant streets trees, there are also long‐term advantages from eliminat‐ ing power outages during ice storms, high winds, and other severe weather.

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Streetscaping is an important element that contributes signifi‐ cantly to the aesthetic qualities and function of city streets. As shown in these examples, creatively designed site furnishings, lighting, signage and landscaping can create an attractive setting that enhances the vitality of business areas.

For best success with new street trees in urban areas, provide large planting areas with substantial soil volumes that allow good root growth. Avoid small “cut outs” within sidewalks that are hampered by poor drainage and lack of sub‐surface oxygen.

Also, where street trees are provided in paved areas, consider the use of “Structural Soil” as the sub‐base material below sidewalks for its benefits to tree health. This innovative material, consisting of gravel, soil, and a binding polymer, creates a structurally sound base below pavement that also encourages healthy root develop‐ ment for street trees.

Photo Credit: Jamie Jamieson

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The sketches to the right illustrate design concepts for the recently constructed first phase of Main Street streetscaping in Downtown Owasso. As described previously in section 2.6, Main Street has been renovated between 76th Street and Broadway, with plans to extend this treatment north along Main to 86th Street and east along 76th Street to Highway 169. The standards that have been established for paving, lighting and site furnishings should be used for future phases to provide visual continuity.

The main entrance into Stone Canyon from 76th Street is an excellent example of the visual benefits from a landscape median. Although these plantings are relatively new, they create significant impact and a sense of quality. Future street projects in Owasso should be evaluated for opportunities to create boulevards. Landscaping in center medians should be designed to be sustainable, with durable plants that will thrive in the typically harsh urban con‐ ditions. Provisions for watering and maintenance must also be factored into

the landscape design of medians and boulevards.

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Streetscape Concepts for Main Street In Downtown Owasso

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A “before and after” illustration has been developed to show potential streetscape development on Owasso’s thoroughfares. As an example, the photo to the left is a current view of 129th Street looking toward the north. The sketch below, showing this same view, provides an image of how this street could be transformed through streetscaping. Potential enhancements include widened sidewalks, decorative street lights, and landscaping. Overhead power lines are present in this particular location, so trees with suitably low heights are proposed (such as Crapemyrtles, Foster Holly, etc.). The streetscape concept also illustrates the potential for a cen‐ ter landscaped median.

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4.6 Community Gathering Places and Cultural Facilities

Festival / Events Park

Goal: Create a festival / events park in Owasso that can accommodate diverse events and activities.

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Create an outstanding venue to host a wide variety of events such as concerts, cultural events, festivals, fireworks displays, balloon festivals, etc. Consider the potential to incorporate an outdoor amphitheater and a multi‐use events pavilion (for indoor events) within the festival park. Evaluate required site size to ensure adequate capacity for all de‐ sired events and long‐range growth.

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Locational Considerations: Select site with good street access, utilities, land use compatibility and good synergy with other city facilities. The city’s transportation system must be able to provide adequate ingress and egress to the selected site for good traffic flow during larger events.

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Potential Site Facilities: Parking / roadways, utility systems, lighting, restrooms, RV parking areas and trails. Consider including a drop‐off area to allow bus shuttles from off‐site parking for large events. Plans should include over‐flow parking areas (reinforced turfgrass) to avoid the expense of paving large areas that may only be fully utilized several times a year. Consider additional recreational facilities to allow the fes‐ tival park to also function as a community park on an every day basis.

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Potential Site Area Needed: 30 to 50 + Acres (Approximate). Provide the ability to accommodate multiple events as well as events of varying size.

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A festival park in Owasso can become a valuable addition to the community, providing a place for a wide variety of events. Other uses that can be integrated with a large festival park include an outdoor amphitheater, events pavilion, and farmers market.

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Outdoor Amphitheater

Goal: Develop an outdoor amphitheater to accommo‐ date a wide variety of events.

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Consider opportunities to integrate an amphitheater with a new festi‐ val / events park. Complement the planned amphitheater at Tulsa Tech’s Owasso Campus.

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Evaluate event sizes / seating capacity. Design for potential overflow onto lawn areas.

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Locational Considerations: ‐ Good Access from Streets / Highways ‐ Neighborhood Compatibility (Noise, Traffic) ‐ Topography / Slopes ‐ Utilities (Electricity, Sanitary Sewer and Water) Design Options: ‐ Seating ‐ Concrete Structures, All‐Lawn or Combination ‐ Shade Canopy over Stage and Seating ‐ Permanent Stage (with Light and Sound Truss) vs. Temporary Stage The amphitheater at RiverWalk Crossing in Jenks has been an important part of the development’s success.

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Outdoor amphitheaters can be designed in a wide variety of styles, including simple sloped lawns that provide great flexibility and are low cost. Amphitheaters can also be constructed with concrete seating terraces, or with a combination of lawn terraces and stone seat walls. There are also many options for construction of a stage, which may include a canopy for weather protection and visual impact.

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Multi‐Purpose Events Pavilion

Goal: Develop a multi‐purpose pavilion to enable Owasso to host a wide variety of events requiring in‐ door space.

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Take advantage of Owasso’s excellent location and proximity to regional transportation by developing a state‐of‐the‐art events building that brings significant events and revenue to the City. (Consider a location within a new festival park.)

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Potential events include: ‐ Trade Shows ‐ Meetings ‐ Concerts ‐ Special Events (Class Reunions, Weddings, etc.)

Potential Building Features: ‐ Concrete Events Floor ‐ Flexibility to Divide Floor for Multiple Event Sizes ‐ Accommodations for Catering / Storage Needs ‐ Clear Definition of public / spectator areas vs. service functions ‐Sustainable / low impact design features such as natural lighting, high performance HVAC systems, solar / PV panels, cool roofs, etc. ‐Future Expansion Potential

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The River Center at Three Forks Harbor, Muskogee was designed by GH2 Architects. This 10,000 square foot facility includes a multi‐purpose space for public events and educational sessions.

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Community Lake

Goal: Create a community lake that can become an important civic gathering place.

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A new lake can be integrated within a community park, with potential to become the key element for diverse uses such as recreation, shop‐ ping, office and pedestrian‐oriented developments. As a natural at‐ traction that people are typically drawn to, a lake can become the premier community gathering place for the Owasso community.

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Explore potential use of Stone Canyon Lake and the nearby rock quarry that has long‐range potential as a large, scenic lake.

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Consider opportunities to integrate activities such as fishing, boating and walking trails.

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Consider the environmental benefits of a large community lake. With proper management, a lake can provide diverse natural habitat and opportunities for development of nature trails, interpretive centers, and other forms of environmental education.

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Community lakes can take many forms and provide a wide range of recreational activities, including fishing, boating and enjoying nature. Good water quality can be maintained by ensuring sufficient water depth, as well as by adding floating fountains for aeration.

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As conceptually illustrated above, a large lake has the potential to become the central feature for a community destination that in‐ cludes diverse facilities and recreational opportunities. The lake provides a scenic backdrop for performances at an outdoor amphithea‐ ter as well as for festivals. The lake can also provide a great setting for picnicking, family activities, trails, boating, fishing, and natural habitat areas. A pedestrian‐oriented mixed use development can also benefit tremendously from being adjacent to water.

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Multi‐Purpose Regional Stormwater Detention

Goal: For new City of Owasso detention basins, create multi‐purpose designs that provide versatile public uses in addition to flood control.

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Continue to focus on regional flood control that can become valuable recreation space (not small basins that are maintenance problems).

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Design Considerations: ‐ Function: Create Usable Spaces that Enhance Quality of Life ‐ Aesthetics: Integrate Early in the Design Process to Avoid Simply Landscaping an Engineered Solution ‐ Long‐Term Maintenance ‐ Potential Features: Walkways, Open Space, Play Fields, Lakes, Streams and Natural Features ‐ Environmental Sensitivity: Design to Save Existing Trees and Sensitive Habitat Areas

Owasso’s Elm Creek Park has excellent potential for improvements that can enhance the park’s ability to meet a variety of community needs. Several illustra‐ tions are included on the following pages to show po‐ tential improvements to Elm Creek Park.

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Located immediately east of Tulsa’s downtown, Centennial Park provides a good exam‐ ple of a multi‐purpose flood control facility. A plan was developed for this 11‐acre park that integrated large‐scale flood control without compromising the site’s aesthetic and environmental qualities. Completed approximately 4 years ago, the park now includes a permanent lake, community center, lakeside terrace, stream, lighted trails, open space and natural landscaping. A key element of the park’s design was to preserve as many of its large trees as possible. Sandstone boulder retaining wall terraces were landscaped with over 50 varieties of plants to create a pleasing and sustainable environment. In the center of the park, a stone bridge and waterfall create a pedestrian space that has become a popular landmark for photographs.

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OWASSO QUALITY OF LIFE ENHANCEMENT Owasso’s Elm Creek Park, shown to the left in its existing condition, can be en‐ hanced to have a similar character to Tulsa’s Centennial Park. The sketch below provides a vision of potential improvements, which can include natural stone for lake edging and terraced walls that will help address erosion issues. Native / low maintenance plantings are also proposed to stabilize the pond banks and provide environmental benefits. Water quality improvements should also be considered, including dredging / silt removal, floating aerators or subsurface aeration systems.

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Elm Creek Park can also be improved by upgrading existing site features, including pe‐ destrian bridges, walkways, and lighting. Older picnic shelters, as shown in the photo to the right, can also be replaced with a new structure that can enhance the park’s im‐ age and usefulness. As envisioned in the sketch below, a new pavilion with stone col‐ umns and durable metal roof creates a great setting for picnics and family gatherings.

The addition of a fishing deck, seat walls and natural landscaping is also proposed.

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Performing Arts Center

Goal: Plan for a future performing arts center in Owasso.

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Analyze the economic potential and benefits to Owasso citizens that would be possible with a performing arts center.

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Study and learn from other regional performing art center facilities (Claremore, Bartlesville, Bristow, Broken Arrow, etc.).

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Determine the optimal size to fit Owasso’s current and future needs.

Consider options for phased construction.

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Strategically review needs in consideration of Owasso’s other existing and planned facilities to determine how to best complement: ‐ Tulsa Tech Owasso Campus (New auditoriums are planned to seat 375 and 250 people) ‐ Owasso Schools (High School P.A.C.) ‐ Bailey Medical Center Auditorium

Several communities in northeastern Oklahoma have built excellent performing arts centers. These include Broken Arrow (top), Bartlesville (left) and Claremore (bottom right).

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Community Center Facilities

Goal: Utilize a combination of existing resources to meet Owasso’s facility needs for community events and indoor recreation.

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As the City of Owasso grows larger, it will continue to have needs for community gatherings and meetings. Needs for in‐ door recreation space will also be important to address. Poten‐ tial functions include indoor recreation / multi‐purpose gym and meeting rooms for civic organizations.

The Owasso Community Center, located on Cedar Street south of Downtown, has convenient access from 76th Street.

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After careful evaluation of options to address the community’s needs, the recommended strategy includes making use of sev‐ eral facilities that currently exist or will be constructed soon.

These include the following resources:  Existing Owasso Community Center: The current facility provides functional space for senior activities and other groups.  Owasso Family YMCA: This outstanding facility, which is already planned for expansion, can help meet the demand for indoor recreation and indoor swimming.  Tulsa Tech Owasso Campus: Now under construction, these new facilities will provide excellent space for commu‐ nity meetings and many types of other events.  Owasso Public Schools and churches: These facilities in‐ clude a number of gymnasiums which can help meet the needs for indoor sports and league games.

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4.7 Pedestrian‐Oriented Development

Mixed‐Use Development

Goal: Diversify and enhance Owasso’s quality of life with exceptional new mixed‐use developments.

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Maximize efforts that lead to the construction of pedestrian‐oriented developments in Owasso, including lifestyle centers that integrate a wide variety of uses. Developments should create attractive architec‐ ture and high quality site features and amenities. The addition of a mixed‐use project can complement Owasso’s existing shopping areas and restaurants, with the potential to create a community gathering place that can attract visitors from other communities.

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Mixed‐use development project uses can include a combination of re‐ tail, restaurant, office, and residential. Recreational uses and trails can also complement the developments.

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Consider opportunities to create public spaces (parks, lakes, etc.) to ac‐ celerate private investment. As an example, a scenic lake or large open space can create a unique setting that would be a significant asset to a pedestrian‐oriented development that encourages walking and outdoor dining.

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Create pedestrian connections to new developments to make Owasso a more walkable city.

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Photo Credit: Jamie Jamieson

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Photo Credit: Jamie Jamieson

Successful mixed‐use developments provide well designed pedestrian spaces that encourage patrons to walk to a number of destina‐ tions. Good pedestrian spaces typically include attractive site furniture, landscaping, lighting, artwork, and decorative pavement.

Developments that are adjacent to water benefit from a unique atmosphere that is conducive to relaxing and dining outside.

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The development of a pedestrian‐oriented mixed use project in Owasso would be a great complement to existing shopping areas and restaurants. In the conceptual illustration shown above, retail stores and restaurants can be integrated on lower levels with offices and residential space on upper floors. Pedestrian areas are enhanced with lake views and outdoor eating areas.

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Tulsa Tech Owasso Campus Opportunities

Goal: Maximize opportunities created by the new Tulsa Tech Owasso campus to enhance Owasso’s quality of life.

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Maximize the value of investment in this new campus by planning for “highest and best use” for adjacent properties. Plan for exceptional de‐ velopments surrounding the new campus that are complementary and synergistic. Consider opportunities to create pedestrian‐oriented mixed ‐use developments in the areas surrounding the new campus.

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Review the planned facilities to identify how this new campus will ac‐ commodate elements of Owasso’s long‐range vision (Performing Arts Center / Community Center functions).

Illustration: Crafton Tull Sparks

As shown in the Tulsa Tech Owasso Campus site plan, the new campus development will occur on the east side of Highway 169 between 106th and 116th Streets North. Tulsa Technology Center is a career and tech‐ nology school district dedicated to preparing people for success in the workplace. Tulsa Tech has multiple cam‐ pus locations throughout the Tulsa region.

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Develop an overlay district for the new campus area to ensure quality control of landscaping, building setbacks, architecture, etc.

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Illustrations: Crafton Tull Sparks

The 30‐acre Tulsa Tech Owasso Campus will be a significant educational asset to the community. As illustrated in the perspective sketch above, campus site features will include several large ponds, floating fountains, walking trails, wildflower areas and native grass plantings. The access road on the west side of the campus has been named to honor Harold Charney, who has been a Tulsa Tech board member for 35 years.

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Illustrations: Crafton Tull Sparks

Scheduled to be completed in 2013, plans include the construction of an approximately 255,000 square feet building to be built with state‐of‐the‐art techniques. Power for the building is planned to be provided through wind, solar, geothermal, and graywater methods. The new building will provide 2 large meeting rooms that can accommodate a variety of public events.

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Downtown Revitalization

Goal: Revitalize Owasso’s Downtown District to be‐ come a vibrant civic core.



Provide focused efforts to implement the Owasso Downtown District Conceptual Plan and Implementation Strategy (2001). Continue work‐ ing to create a more recognizable identity for Downtown, and take steps to strengthen businesses. Implement additional Main Street streetscape phases, including the 76th Street / Main intersection and the Main Street corridor between Broadway and 86th Street.



Build on the existing downtown investment that created key anchors (City Hall / Police Station, City / County Library and the Owasso Histori‐ cal Society Museum).



Continue current efforts to encourage downtown investment, including a new compressed natural gas filling station that has a historic appear‐ ance. Explore potential benefits from the proposed waterfront project on the west side of downtown. Support potential expansion of the Owasso Family YMCA to reinforce its role as a vital downtown facility and important community focal point.

4 ‐ 100

Owasso’s downtown is home to several major public facilities, including the Owasso Municipal Building and the City / County Library. The Owasso Historical Society Museum also adds significantly to the identity of downtown as the most significant remaining historical building.

OWASSO QUALITY OF LIFE ENHANCEMENT

As shown in this perspective of the 76th and Main Street intersection, the long‐range vision for Owasso includes a pedestrian‐oriented downtown with a real sense of identity. Ultimately, Downtown Owasso should be developed with greater density that includes a diverse mix of uses and opportunities to integrate transit.

SECTION 4

As shown in the two drawings above, Owasso’s downtown master plan included a land use plan as well as a plan to create four districts (top), each of which had a unique character and guidelines.

4 ‐ 101

SECTION 4

OWASSO QUALITY OF LIFE ENHANCEMENT

4.8 Environment and Sustainability

Community Wide Focus on Sustainable Principles (Go Green! Initiative)

Goal: Make Owasso a model city for sustainability and environmental impacts.



As a community, plan for a future that responsibly preserves the environ‐ ment, protects natural resources and enhances quality of life in a way that is sustainable for future generations.



Continue efforts to promote and implement Owasso’s GO GREEN! Initiative, including reducing environmental impacts and “greener” approaches to lo‐ cal government. (90% of the Wikiplanning survey respondents agreed or strongly agreed with the need for Owasso to respect the environment, recy‐ cle and promote conservation.)



On a community‐wide basis, implement sustainable strategies such as: ‐ Recycling (Support and Improve the Owasso Recycling Center and Disposal Station; Continue Relationship with M.E.T.) ‐ City‐Wide Campaign to Plant Trees ‐ Sustainable Site Development Features (Rain Gardens, Bioswales, Permeable Paving Systems, Xeriscaping, Green Roofs, etc.) ‐ Utilize Treated Graywater for Irrigation of Parks and Public Spaces (Install Pipes in Preparation for Eventually Providing Irrigation with All Road / Infrastructure Projects.) ‐ Transit (Public Education / Increased Use) ‐ Stormwater Re‐Use

4 ‐ 102

A community‐wide focus on planting trees has great potential to enhance Owasso’s quality of life. Environmental benefits include purification of the air, temperature reduction during hot weather and energy conservation.

OWASSO QUALITY OF LIFE ENHANCEMENT

SECTION 4

Protection of the Natural Environment

Permeable Paving

Environmental Education

Composting

Recycling

Sustainable Landscaping / Native Plants

4 ‐ 103

SECTION 4

OWASSO QUALITY OF LIFE ENHANCEMENT

Fitness, Wellness and Healthy Lifestyles

Goal: Promote and encourage healthy lifestyles, fitness and wellness for the community.



The desire for health and wellness had very high consensus on the Wikiplanning survey. (51% strongly agreed with this goal, and another 39% agreed.) Owasso has the opportunity to become a model commu‐ nity for healthy living. Partner with organizations like the YMCA, Owasso Public Schools and local health care institutions for community education and initiation of health and wellness‐oriented strategies..



Provide education programs and facilities to encourage: ‐ Get Moving! Run, Walk, Bike ‐ Fitness Stations Along Trails ‐ Active Play for Kids ‐ Get Outside and Enjoy Nature ‐ Creative Play Opportunities ‐ Swimming / Water Play ‐ Community Gardening, Farmer’s Market, “Buy Local” Produce ‐ Healthy Eating / Nutrition Education for All Ages (Educate School Kids, Let Them Become Family Leaders) ‐ Ensure Trail Easements are Acquired During Subdivision Platting to Enhance Future Trail Development

4 ‐ 104

OWASSO QUALITY OF LIFE ENHANCEMENT

SECTION 4

A healthy and physically fit population will benefit Owasso for the decades ahead.

There are many simple ways to encourage a healthy, fun‐filled lifestyle.

4 ‐ 105

SECTION 4

OWASSO QUALITY OF LIFE ENHANCEMENT

4.9 Strong Neighborhoods

Owasso Strong Neighborhood Initiative

Goal: Strengthen Owasso’s outstanding neighborhoods and reinforce their quality of life opportunities



Facilitate the Owasso Strong Neighborhood Initiative’s mission to part‐ ner with stakeholders and improve quality of life so that Owasso is as attractive tomorrow as it is today for residents and businesses.



Continue with consistent code enforcement.



Encourage and promote healthy neighborhoods as a critical building block of Owasso, with activities and programs such as: ‐ Block Parties / Neighborhood Events ‐ Encourage Neighbors to Get Outside and Get to Know Each Other ‐ Encourage Kids to Play Outdoors ‐ Community / Neighborhood Gardening ‐ Neighborhood Improvement Projects (Repair / Beautification) ‐ Neighborhood Watch Programs ‐ Beautification Patrols (Monthly Reports on Positives / Negatives: Litter, Mowing Illegal Signs, etc.)

4 ‐ 106

Funded by the city’s hotel tax, the Owasso Strong Neighborhood Initiative began in 2008 with the goal to build and maintain strong neighborhoods, which in turn preserves the city’s social and economic stability.

OWASSO QUALITY OF LIFE ENHANCEMENT

SECTION 4

Many communities are faced with the task of revitalizing neighborhoods in an effort to impact property values and the health and welfare of residents. Owasso’s leaders recognized the value in taking proactive steps to assist aging neighborhoods remain healthy. One of the most basic ele‐ ments of a strong neighborhood is for its residents to get to know each other and to take part in activities together. Good starting points are to encourage children to play together and for neighbors to start walking. (This also has great health benefits!) Block parties, neighborhood im‐ provement projects and other social events also build neighborhood pride and community spirit.

4 ‐ 107

SECTION 4

OWASSO QUALITY OF LIFE ENHANCEMENT

Owasso is committed to the preservation and renewal of its neighborhoods.

A key component of the Strong Neighborhood Initiative is the Neighbor‐ hood Matching Grant Program, which is administered by the Owasso Com‐ munity Foundation. This program Is designed to provide matching funds to neighborhoods for a range of projects that will improve and strengthen them. There is not a specific list of allowable projects, however, examples include landscaping, entry signs, traffic calming, educational programs, neighborhood clean‐up efforts and neighborhood watch activities.

Another program that has been highly successful in other communities is the creation of a city‐wide “beautification patrol.” Developing this type of program in Owasso would be of value to the city and could be a great activ‐ ity with which neighbors could become involved. The beauty patrols typi‐ cally meet monthly to drive main roadways to observe and record positive or negative things related to litter, illegal signs, mowing, etc. The monthly inspections also provide an opportunity to commend neighborhoods or businesses for excellence in landscaping, maintenance, etc.

4 ‐ 108

5.0 Summary

SECTION 5

SUMMARY

5.1 Next Steps

A bold Quality of Life Initiative would be a community investment that would pay off almost immediately – and well into the future. The continu‐ ous growth of the community and the aging of existing facilities require tak‐ ing action soon to make Owasso an attractive place to live and for business investment. Owasso’s comprehensive and long‐range quality of life plan must provide the basis for the future development of amenities. Without adequate planning, quality of life improvements may not be given the ap‐ propriate priorities, may not be properly located, or may not even be real‐ ized; Owasso may never have that “wow” factor.

Owasso’s next generation depends on today’s leaders to continue to lay a strong base for their future. A bold approach to improving quality of life by providing attractive public amenities also works in establishing a sound fi‐ nancial position for the city. Just like a business or a home, a city must rein‐ vest in order to maintain the soundness and value of the original invest‐ ment.

The decision for a city to reinvest is difficult because of the political and fi‐ nancial risk involved. Owasso, like every city or family, has an abundance of needs and limited resources to apply to those needs. So, it is only natural that when faced with a decision to invest tax dollars into projects that pro‐ vide solutions to meet short and long term needs, there will be discussion about whether or not the decision is a good one.

Over the years, Owasso’s leaders have recognized the need for reinvesting in facilities and infrastructure. The strategy of reinvesting in infrastructure has a demonstrated history of success. By any measure, the citizen– taxpayer has received a good return on his investment in Owasso. As the city continues to grow in the coming years, there will be significant needs to

5 ‐ 2

COMMUNITY ANALYSIS

SECTION 5

improve streets, utilities and other essential elements. This plan recom‐ mends implementing quality of life elements within a balanced strategy that includes basic infrastructure improvements as well as enhancements and amenities. It is now important for a city that values the investment of its residents to remain vigorous and make wise decisions concerning quality of life. A sound reinvestment strategy is critical to the long‐term livability and fiscal stability of Owasso.

As illustrated in the diagram below, planning for Owasso’s future growth and quality of life is a long‐term process, with a number of steps to be ac‐ complished in the right sequence. As described earlier in this study, an im‐ portant first step for this project has been to create opportunities for mean‐ ingful input from citizens regarding their goals, desires and concerns. The second major effort has been the creation of a long‐range vision for pro‐ posed quality of life enhancements, which has been included with section 4 of this study. There are also several important tasks that will need to be completed by the community as an ongoing effort. The third step involves the establishment of priorities, from the broad range of proposed elements, to create a phased implementation strategy. This effort should be done as a partnership between Owasso citizens and city leaders. The development of priorities should also be done in coordination with the Capital Improve‐ ments Strategic Plan that is currently underway.

PLANNING PROCESS STEP 1

STEP 2

DEVELOP PLAN

COMMUNITY INPUT

LONG-RANGE VISION

STEP 3

PRIORITIZE PROJECTS

IDENTIFY PRIORITIES FOR INITIAL PROJECTS

STEP 4

IMPLEMENT IN PHASES

•COST ESTIMATES •FUNDING •CONSTRUCTION

5 ‐ 3

SECTION 5

SUMMARY

Following the development of priorities for both short and long‐term qual‐ ity of life projects, the final step is to fund and implement specific improve‐ ments. This step involves a number of tasks that generally include prepara‐ tion of cost estimates, funding, development of detailed project designs / construction plans, and construction / implementation. To assist with the preparation of an accurate project budget, which is essential in the efforts to fund specific improvements, it may be necessary to complete more de‐ tailed plans for quality of life elements that have been proposed. These preliminary plans would develop site specific drawings for the individual elements that were included in the previous section of this study. A signifi‐ cant benefit of these plans will be the ability to do accurate cost estimating from scaled plans for specific projects. Additional planning may include the preparation of a Recreation Plan, which would specific enhancements for existing parks as well as locations and elements for new parks. A de‐ tailed Greenbelt / Trails Plan and a Streetscaping Plan can also provide use‐ ful guidance for identifying and implementing phased projects.

Once individual projects have been prioritized and project budgets have been established, potential funding sources can be determined that best fit the specific projects. Depending on the nature of the project, funding may include a combination of sources (private, public, grants, non‐profit founda‐ tions, etc.) Public funding may include a combination of city, county, state and federal sources. Many of the proposed quality of life elements are ei‐ ther low cost or no‐cost, with programs and initiatives that encourage citi‐ zen participation in creating a better community. It is also important to note that proposed community features include a number of elements that would be privately funded, such as the creation of a pedestrian‐oriented mixed use development. Partnerships between the public and private sec‐ tors should be pursued where possible. Success in obtaining project fund‐

ing will require persistence, creativity and pursuing all possible sources.

5‐ 4

SUMMARY

SECTION 5

5.2 Keys to Success

The proposed elements that comprise the Owasso Quality of Life Initiative are ambitious, and reflect “The City Without Limits” spirit and the goal to become a great community. What will it take to succeed? The following discussion outlines several essential keys to implement this long‐range vi‐ sion for Owasso.

Community Consensus

Long‐term success in enhancing the city’s quality of life will require true consensus within Owasso including citizens, city leaders, and the business community. It will take a real partnership, with all stakeholders working together to reach a common goal and shared vision. An important step in the planning process for the Quality of Life Initiative has been a major civic engagement campaign, with residents being able to voice their desires early in the project. As a result, the ideas and priorities of Owasso’s resi‐ dents have been a very important element in the creation of proposed community features. Ultimately, the Quality of Life Initiative will only be successful if there is true buy‐in from the community: this must be Owasso’s plan.

Committed Leadership

As a long‐range plan that identifies proposed enhancements for the city, this initiative will require on‐going and dedicated leadership. This leader‐ ship must include all segments of the community: City representatives, business leaders, civic groups, and the community at large. Effective lead‐ ership will take a long‐range focus, persistence, energy and passion to help Owasso reach its full potential.

5 ‐ 5

SECTION 5

COMMUNITY ANALYSIS

Citizen Involvement and Community Pride

Successful implementation of the Quality of Life Initiative will only be pos‐ sible through community‐wide action and pride. It is important for Owasso’s citizens to individually and collectively take ownership in the de‐ sire to make Owasso a better community today than it was yesterday.

Many of the recommendations that are part of this study are initiatives and programs that simply involve participation from citizens in helping Owasso become a sustainable community that values the environment, neighborhood vitality, and healthy lifestyles. Citizens can also join with their neighborhood, church, school or civic group to become actively en‐ gaged in implementing quality of life features. Owasso residents have al‐ ready demonstrated their willingness to get involved with their commu‐ nity; one of the best examples is the planning and construction of Funtas‐ tic Island in Owasso’s Sports Park. In a weeklong process, families, neighbors and friends came together to build a large‐scale play area that has become a popular recreational destination. The creativity and team‐ work that made this effort a success can become a model for repeating this type of community action on future enhancement projects

Flexibility

Because our society is changing so rapidly, it is essential to re‐evaluate this plan on a regular basis. The recommendations and proposals that are rele‐ vant today must be updated in the years and decades ahead to ensure that they meet the changing needs of Owasso’s citizens.

5‐ 6

SUMMARY

SECTION 5

Visible Success

Building and maintaining momentum for any long‐term project is impor‐ tant, and the Quality of Life Initiative is no exception. As projects are com‐ pleted ‐ one by one ‐ the community will be energized by seeing tangible signs of positive change. Completion of larger projects provides instant recognition that improvements and enhancements are occurring that add to the enjoyment of living in Owasso. It is equally important to recognize that no step forward is insignificant. Progress can be as simple as a home‐ owner planting a small tree that years from now will provide wonderful shade and clean air. Or, a school child who runs home to tell his parents about new ideas for healthy eating or fitness. It can be as simple as a neighborhood beautifying their entry, a civic group adopting a mile of high‐ way to pick up litter or a business that is adding jobs because they like what is going on in Owasso. Every household that makes a commitment to recy‐ cling or composting helps to make a more sustainable community.

5 ‐ 7

SECTION 5

SUMMARY

Conclusion

The goals that the City has already achieved have been reached by focusing on the future and recognizing how the community can be even better to‐ morrow than it is right now. The Owasso of today has many very good things: community spirit, neighborhoods, schools, churches, parks and places to shop. But, the Owasso of tomorrow has opportunities for great‐ ness! The proposed quality of life elements and strategies are intended to become the “building blocks” for Owasso to reach its full potential in the future. The plan is based upon the foundational idea of building upon the existing community strengths to add the missing elements that would cre‐ ate an attitude of “why would you want to live anywhere else?” The Owasso Quality of Life Initiative was also designed to create a community that will be just as good an investment 20 years from now as it is today. Creating this type of community will take leadership and commitment. It will take an investment of time and resources. But, the results will be very worthwhile.

Quality of life has now become an issue that deserves major focus and at‐ tention. It is time to work together to make Owasso a community that its children and grandchildren will be proud to call home. A true city without limits!

5‐ 8

May 2010 Community Meetings Summary 7th Grade Student Workshop Summary Wikiplanning On‐Line Civic Engagement Campaign Executive Summary and Survey Data

APPENDICES

Appendix A:

Appendix B:

Appendix C:

APPENDIX A

APPENDIX A

MAY 2010

OWASSO QUALITY OF LIFE COMMUNITY MEETINGS SUMMARY

A ‐ 1

APPENDIX A SECTION 4

OWASSO QUALITY OF LIFE ENHANCEMENTS

Owasso Quality of Life Initiative May 2010 Community Meetings Summary Prepared by Alaback Design Associates The following is a summary of public comments from five community workshops that were facilitated by The City of Owasso and plan‐ ning consultants during May 2010. Comments were recorded on large flip chart note pads during breakout group discussions sessions, as well as notes taken by facilitators. Citizen comments that are summarized below are unedited / as written.

May 3, 2010 (6:30 pm – Discovery Bible Fellowship, 11600 N Garnett Road)

SUMMARY OF FLIP CHART COMMENTS  Dog Park  Don’t reduce number of ball fields in area of YMCA  Basketball court in park(s)  Tennis courts/basketball courts combined  Outdoor Pool (city pool) (regular size) – Adult Pool/ Kid Pool **multiple votes**  Pool options that don’t cost as much as the YMCA  Concerned about interconnectivity of parks – kids in danger crossing streets between parks  Interconnectivity of all sidewalks  3rd court sidewalk needs replaced (some was replaced, but not all) **at Rayola Park**  Think connectivity of trails is a great idea  Recycling center is good  Advertise skate park better  New playground equipment at Rayola (more modern/creative toys)  Establish features for each park i.e. one park have tennis courts, one park a farmers’ market, one park basketball court, etc.  Owasso Farmers’ Market – more signage on the day of the event. 10‐12 vendors. Best year 17‐20 vendors  BA Farmers’ Market is a good example  Wine (in the Farmers’ Market – municipal code issue  Centrally located area with a green  Fall festivals  Water feature – “Utica Park meets Stone Canyon lake”  Botanical Gardens

A ‐ 2

SECTION 4     

OWASSO QUALITY OF LIFE ENHANCEMENTS

APPENDIX A

Sidewalks in Old Town behind YMCA in poor repair. Please repair.

Will frontage roads be built on both sides of US 169? Would like to have.

Sewer treatment plant – when will it be enlarged for growth of Owasso?

Youth baseball facilities that match the quality of H.S. baseball facilities No new taxes or fees

NOTES FROM ALABACK DESIGN STAFF  People aren’t going to use connective trails from park to park  Add dog parks  Need more public spaces/pools. Don’t get rid of existing baseball fields, pools, etc.  Add city pools with adult/child separation  Worried about safety of children using bike trails from park to park  Not enough sidewalks. Kids and joggers need bike paths and sidewalks  Need a more central skate park  Need more recycling areas  Need businesses, such as Sam’s and a bookstore  Parks should have a feature such as farmers’ market, amphitheatre, etc.

May 6, 2010 (6:30 pm –Bailey Elementary School, 10221 E 96th Street North)

SUMMARY OF FLIP CHART COMMENTS  Just west of downtown – develop small lakeside area – make community around this area including expanded sports park, hotels, etc. Commerce, retail, outside dining, Owasso Riverpark type area – centralized parking, everything accessible by pedestrians  Tie Mohawk trail into this area  Tie all parks with trails  Bike trails, running trails, fitness stations along the trails, running surface similar to a track  Dog park (incredible one in Edmond)  Bathrooms / water stations in all parks, well‐lit and alike  Splash pad in every park  Community amphitheater / gathering spot  Encourage cooperative effort between businesses, neighborhoods and churches to create park areas and walking trails

A ‐ 3

APPENDIX A SECTION 4



      

              

    

A ‐ 4

OWASSO QUALITY OF LIFE ENHANCEMENTS

Trails around businesses, churches, hospitals that have huge lots and encourage them to build picnic areas that can be used by them and the community (similar to TTC walking trail) connect all trails to one another.

Ponds, fishing ponds, canoes, paddleboats Small fishing dock in park ponds Outdoor education, covered area with climbing walls, agility courses, learn about nature (i.e. Camp Loughridge) Competitive pool (run by the YMCA) More museums, culture Expand YMCA Using existing historical structures to set Owasso apart in redevelopment (such as bridge over Bird creek on 169‐move structure when widening highway Mass transit expansion – bus/taxi/limo depot – rail – downtown / airport Central gathering point – event center, amphitheater, water feature, walking trail, retail, restaurants (all nostalgic) Strong sense of community Recreate / reinvigorate downtown Revive golf course No metal buildings, no facades (fake‐ades) More sidewalks, bike lanes Outlet mall north of city Develop unique gateways north and south – example – overpass art on turnpike Trees Pedestrian and bike trails Resting stations along trails Picnic areas Expand YMCA – more basketball courts, gym space, fields – BB, SB, Soccer Reorganize youth sports groups – transparent, work with YMCA, should feed school sports. Mid high needs more attention to identify players.

Tournament promotion / coordination Organize an adult sports recreational league Leagues for disabled kids, handicapped access for fields Golf short course for kids / player development 3‐9 holes with driving range and putting green Indoor batting cages / soccer / multipurpose field

SECTION 4

OWASSO QUALITY OF LIFE ENHANCEMENTS

APPENDIX A

Lake / Waterfront: incorporate sports park, shopping, restaurants, trails Tie in with Tulsa trail system  Tie to golf course  Keep up neighborhood street repairs  Roadway lighting, especially at intersections (169 and arterial streets)  Bury electrical power lines with the new reconstructed streets  Provide more sidewalks especially in existing neighborhoods.  Improve arterial intersections, then widen roadways  In residential street repair and rehab, poor drainage. When it comes due, fix drainage issues. Concrete flumes across drainage areas  Remove old asphalt from repairs  Streetscapes for major arterials – trees and lighting! 

NOTES FROM ALABACK DESIGN STAFF  For neighborhoods to south of Bailey Med Center (bounded by 96th, Garnett, 106th and Mingo), there was considerable interest in developing a new park. A new park here (south of the medical center) would benefit the neighborhoods, the medical center and church nearby. It may be possible for these groups to partner with the city to help make this park a reality. It could be a benefit to kids with families at the hospital, could include a fitness course to complement Bailey’s wellness programs, could be used by church youth groups and would be a benefit to nearby neighborhoods. This area appears to be underserved by the ex‐ isting parks system.  To running track/trails mentioned, add kiosks with information denoting distances, times, etc.  Add lighting to all trails, which has a “signature” look. All lighting should look the same.  Take advantage of the cooperative effort among churches, hospitals, residential, commercial, etc, to have them fund trails/ parks, etc, in a common open space.  Stress to citizens of Owasso the importance of volunteering to take part in THEIR community so that keeping things nice isn’t such a huge burden to the city/taxes, etc.  Community involvement will be necessary to build these things and maintain them.  Desire for foliage everywhere, all year round, like California.  

A ‐ 5

APPENDIX A SECTION 4

OWASSO QUALITY OF LIFE ENHANCEMENTS

May 11, 2010 (6:30 pm –Hodson Elementary School, 14500 E 86th Street North)

SUMMARY OF FLIP CHART COMMENTS  Do projects 100%. For example – Elm Creek dredging, poor embankment already sliding back in and parks aren’t self‐ sustaining. They need regular attention, not redone every 10 years (Elm Creek specifically).  Centennial Park needs more parking either beside or across the street with an under‐the‐road crosswalk.  Outdoor water park at Rayola  Improve usage of Rayola and YMCA area  Bigger pool, indoor and outdoor  Tear down oldest portion of the YMCA and replace with a facility with more class space  Finish sports park  Keep floodplain area off of 76th as a naturalist area for educational purposes. Utilize it without ruining habitat. Like Oxley Na‐ ture Center  East of Tulsa Tech, old house is for sale currently undeveloped. Keep green with trails and natural areas (similar to tech wild‐ flowers and trails)  Parking near park shelters  Shopping strip backed up to creek area in Centennial Park with stores and restaurants  Inventory trees in parks (good Boy Scout project) what kind, how many, estimated age, label trees with info (similar to area SE of Philbrook). Replace trees prior to them dying.  More Frisbee golf, even if it’s only 2 or 3 holes.  Use volunteers / schools to label trees and flowers  Encourage classes to plant trees with a plaque saying “Planted by ___ School, 2010)  Regulations on animal waste on walking paths.  Doggie disposal bags for waste  More trash containers in Elm Creek. Often get moved to shelters  More splash pads at parks  Fountain / wading areas  Paddle boats and little sail boats for rent  Inventory parking places at each park  Mile and Kilometer markings on trials and mark online.  Plant trees around elm creek drainage area

A ‐ 6

SECTION 4                               

OWASSO QUALITY OF LIFE ENHANCEMENTS

APPENDIX A

Dog Park Planting plan for parks, tree replacement plan, keeping maintained and alive plan Trash cans around Frisbee golf course More trash cans in parks Benches in parks, around trails and playground areas Build a sledding hill in park, could also be used for bike trails and city fireworks display Strip of Irises (similar to Woodward) RV Park, even a small one, would give RVers a place to stop in our community.

Pedestrian / bike trails Bike lanes.

Cannot take children on 76th on bicycles Need a way to get to new Mohawk trail Same problem walking downtown Clean roadways of glass and debris 76th Street – need better access Add bicycle racks to office / shopping Lighting / safety issues Bring new multi‐use trail from Mohawk to Rayola park Trails to new TTC Campus Light rail system to connect to Tulsa Community‐wide internet – small fee on utility bill Traffic calming on residential streets Green belt – separate Owasso from Tulsa Signal Timing (86th) Skybridge from OHS to Mid High Street overlay / repair Elm Creek!

A place to have festivals – Festival Park The Boulder Mall ABQ Uptown Community Gateway Walkable shopping district with lofts

A ‐ 7

APPENDIX A SECTION 4

      

 

            

OWASSO QUALITY OF LIFE ENHANCEMENTS

Light rail Not enough housing choices – condos and townhomes with garages, homes between 150 and 250K Miniature golf Downtown “neighborhood” development New larger movie theater with IMAX High density living downtown is OK, as long as it looks like the rest of downtown Incentive‐based system to redevelop downtown – hometown, localized, neighborhood development (ped. oriented, Brookside, Cherry Street, e.g.)

Different types of foods, not chains – Cuban, Cajun, seafood Parking behind the shopping! Make shopping pedestrian oriented – benches, fountains, shade trees, brick pavers, flowers, nice sidewalks with Owasso emblems Main Street brick and stone buildings, not metal Gateway – advertising, signage, something that says, in theory, “You should live here!”

Teen center New nicer movie theater – dinner theater, IMAX / 3D Fine dining – Mahogany’s Commuter Rail to proposed downtown / Park and Ride / airport Promote population density around development areas.

Sidewalks on service roads and around YMCA Separate bike trails from roadways Need signs on how to get from parks to Mohawk trail Existing trails need to be bicycle friendly Need more enforcement of leash requirements Retaining wall on 129th needs a fence or barrier to keep kids who climb on the wall from falling onto roadway

NOTES FROM ALABACK DESIGN STAFF  Elm Creek Park pond was drained and dredged, but city didn’t address erosion and stabilization of banks. (Need to do things completely, not partially.) Also need to make sure play equipment is maintained.  Elm Creek Park also needs places for fishing (dock or flat area next to pond). The park needs more shade trees to replace trees lost or damaged in the ice storm 2 years ago.  Elm Creek Park needs parking added at the east end of the park adjacent to the open field to support informal play, soccer, etc.

A ‐ 8

SECTION 4 

      

  

OWASSO QUALITY OF LIFE ENHANCEMENTS

APPENDIX A

Elm Creek Park needs a splash pad and fitness stations on the walkway around the pond. The park also needs trash cans that are chained down.

Interest was expressed for a city swimming pool with diving boards / deep pool.

The city needs more tennis courts (well‐maintained).

The city needs a community recreation center for kids to have a place for recreation.

Add class space at YMCA for cooking classes, art classes, music classes, etc.

People are driving on walking trails to get to park shelters. Need parking near shelters.

Need more parks on south side of town.

Plant many different trees in parks (like near Woodward Park in Tulsa), with a tree map showing what trees and where. Don’t just plant the same type of tree.

Need for people who can enforce picking up dog waste in parks.

Trash cans in parks need to be locked down so that people can’t move all of the trash cans to one area of the park.

Evaluate parking needs at every park.

May 13, 2010 (6:30 pm –Owasso Community Center, 301 South Cedar) SUMMARY OF FLIP CHART COMMENTS  Need more tennis courts  Football complex for youth 5 fields minimum  Indoor batting cages  Outdoor archery range  Adult softball fields  Championship baseball fields for youth designed as replicas of famous big league parks  Renovate existing sports park to be more user friendly with green space areas to recreate during tournaments  Extend sports park road from 116th to 106th  Evaluate sports park layout  More trees and park benches in parks/sports park  Centrally located restrooms & concessions at sports park  Zone areas around sports park for commercial development  Rayola – permanent benches needed (all parks)  Need more trees at parks

A ‐ 9

APPENDIX A SECTION 4

                      

      

OWASSO QUALITY OF LIFE ENHANCEMENTS

Rayola – add fitness / workout stations along trail around Rayola Connect Mohawk‐Owasso Trail to Rayola Do something with drainage channel at Rayola – fortify bridge, make more attractive Need splash pad at Funtastic Island Need restrooms / pavilion at Stone Canyon – also along other trails Shakespeare on the Lawn at amphitheatres at different parks Need trail to connect Stone Canyon to 76th Add dog park somewhere other than McCarty Need outdoor pool / lap pool. Current pool too small.

Competition pool facility (indoor/outdoor) needed Bike, running trails huge for triathletes. People moving to Jenks to bike & run.

Need a swimming lake (tent camping for girl/boy scouts) Hwy 169 is ugly coming into Owasso from South. Do something with these open spaces around hwy.

Need trees to improve view of hwy (Bird Creek/ iron bridge) Need connectivity through city (trails) Need open dining areas (like Riverwalk, etc.) Romantic options.

Clean up wetland area – what about RR tracks Amphitheatre needed for bands, performance (open air entertainment) Need Farmers’ Market in open‐air area (like BA downtown farmers’ market) Fishing ponds needed for kids around town (public) fishing derby Owasso community theatre interested in outdoor venue Arts in the park needed (Gazebo at Rayola) Friendship park – needs to be expanded. Take baseball fields out and make into a festival park with good access to 169. Use for farmers’ market, fireworks show, etc. Move baseball fields to Sports Park expansion area Tie Funtastic Island into Sports Park for a place to play between games.

Need fishing pier at Elm Creek Park Dog park needs to be in a location where people can walk their dogs to park (Veteran’s Park) Possible festival park at Centennial (2nd choice to Friendship Park location) Outdoor dining and commercial development adjacent to proposed Festival Park Trails to connect all parks (preferably without crossing busy streets) Connect multi‐use trail to Rayola Park & YMCA area

A ‐ 10

SECTION 4               

OWASSO QUALITY OF LIFE ENHANCEMENTS

APPENDIX A

Enforce all developers to construct trails through new developments in accordance with plan Maps showing trails & bike routes in the fenceline Connect city parks and show on map safest route Phones (panic) along trails & lighted trails Shelters / benches along trails Streets & Utilities (see handout list – 8.5 x 11 typed comments) Fine arts facility Elevate, light, landscape all Timmy & Cindy statues Main street development – 1) start from the ground up, 2) restaurants, upscale dining 3) music, 4) underground utilities Upscale retail – 1) whole foods, 2) Barnes & Noble, 3) Clothing i.e. Abercrombie, Ann Taylor, Harold’s (w/money) Owasso needs a Chinatown Festival Park – 1) amphitheatre, 2) water feature, 3) farmers’ market Outdoor / patio dining Outdoor recreation (e.g. Puttnjump) – 1) mini golf, 2) kids’ center / rec. jumpers, 3) go cart tracks More trees in the city, along r/w streets & parks

May 17, 2010 (6:30 pm –Baptist Village, 7410 North 127th East Avenue)

SUMMARY OF FLIP CHART COMMENTS  Activities for 16 year old age group  More jogging trails  New pool – outdoor  Dog Park!!!  Upgrade playground equipment  Parking – Centennial Park  More parking at all parks  Need sidewalks around the perimeter of Baptist Village property  Have to use street for lack of sidewalks  Arts / Cultural Center / Drama Center for music and plays  Beautify highways / plantings  Gateway sign

A ‐ 11

APPENDIX A        

Bury power lines Trees Support scouts (cub‐boy‐girl) Adult sports needs attention More tennis courts Bike and walking trails tied with sports fields Street improvements (Arterials) Sidewalks on existing streets – Original Town

NOTES FROM ALABACK DESIGN STAFF  The number one priority needs to be work on streets /access into Owasso. There is a lot of revenue that comes into the city from shoppers who live outside of Owasso.  Bury the overhead phone/power lines!  For the sake of appearance, need to do something about the wood fences that are in poor repair along the main roads in Owasso. Consider using volunteer labor to help with this problem.  On September 11, the city will host a community‐wide service known as Owasso Cares to promote community pride and ser‐ vice.  Want shopping center that is pedestrian‐friendly where people linger, with benches, landscaping, etc.

A ‐ 12

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX B

OWASSO QUALITY OF LIFE 7th GRADE STUDENT WORKSHOP SUMMARY

B ‐ 1

APPENDIX B

Owasso Quality of Life Initiative 7TH Grade Student Workshop Summary

Prepared by Alaback Design Associates

On June 10, 2010, the City of Owasso and planning consultants held a Quality of Life Workshop with area 7th graders. Below is a sum‐ mary of that information learned from the workshop and the means by which it was collected.

After opening comments by the Honorable Mayor of Owasso and others, the students were shown a “Boos and Cheers” PowerPoint presentation, during which they were shown images of positive and negative events / amenities and asked to “Boo” or “Cheer” in re‐ sponse. As expected, the students cheered for features they liked and expressed their dislike for negative elements.

After the group presentation, the students were directed to four activity stations to participate in a variety of exercises that allowed them to share their vision for Owasso’s ideal future. A review of each station is presented in this summary.

Exercise 1: The Sliding Value Scale Group leaders read the following statements while the students aligned themselves on a large sliding scale marked with “Strongly Agree” and “Strongly Disagree.” Photographs to the right of each question indicate the “answers” provided by the students.

B ‐ 2

Question

Agree

APPENDIX B APPENDIX C Disagree

I should have a say in how my community grows.

It is important to take care of the natural environment in our City.

I think recycling is important.

B ‐ 3

APPENDIX B

Question

Agree

I should have a say in how my community grows.

It is easy and safe to ride my bike or walk to neighborhood parks.

My community needs for areas for active recreation.

B ‐ 4

Disagree

APPENDIX B Question

Agree

Disagree

I wish we had a place for outdoor concerts and festivals.

There are places to go fishing in Owasso.

Traffic congestion is a problem in our city.

B ‐ 5

APPENDIX B

Question

Agree

Our skate park is cool and I like going there.

Owasso needs more malls, shopping centers and restaurants.

It is important for me and my friends to have a sense of pride about our community.

B ‐ 6

Disagree

APPENDIX B Question

Agree

Disagree

I use sidewalks. Sidewalks are important to me.

My community needs more areas for passive recreation for hanging out with friends and family.

We have enough swimming pools and splash pads.

B ‐ 7

APPENDIX B

Exercise 2: “Draw a Park” Mural Students were presented with a large wall mural with a horizon line and asked to draw or write things that they desired in a city park.

The group leader offered ideas to spark creativity, such as a fishing pond, playground equipment, gazebos, amphitheater, trails, splash pad, etc. While they drew, the students were asked the following questions (moderator‐noted answers are shown in italics):

What is your favorite park in Owasso? What is it about that park that makes it your favorite?

Elm Creek, Funtastic Island / Playground Equipment

Think of a park in another city. What does that park have that Owasso doesn’t? How would you change that park to make it

even better?

Pool, sidewalks without gravel

What do you think parks are for? Why do you go to the park? What makes you want to keep coming back?

Walking, playgrounds, exercise, parks can conserve nature / Feed the ducks, skip rocks, ride bikes and scooter, walk dogs

How do you use parks now? How do you think you will use them in 10, 15 or even 20 years?

Ride scooters, read books, use water features

Do you think it is important for parks to appeal to all age groups?

Yes

Do you think it is important for a park to be safe during the day and at night? How can you make parks safer?

Lights

The completed mural is shown below:

B ‐ 8

APPENDIX B Desired park features that were drawn by the students included: Bike Path

Open Grassy Areas

Street Lights

Dog Park

Swings

Cleaner Restrooms

Shaded Benches by Ponds to Feed Ducks Rock Climbing Wall

Pavilion

Trampoline

See‐Saws

Lighted Tennis Courts

Tree House

Bird Bath

Pool

No Gravel

Basketball Courts

Slide into a Swimming Pool

Slide

Picnic Areas

Amphitheater

Exercise 3: Sticker Voting Photographs of various activities and amenities were printed large‐scale and placed on the wall, and students were given green dot stickers with which to vote on elements that they felt were most important to Quality of Life in Owasso. The images below reflect the “voting” results provided by the students. Facilitators encouraged discussion during this exercise and encouraged voting consideration with the following questions.

If you had to choose one of these photos that most represents your likes or interests, which one would it be and why?

Think about the things you most want to see in Owasso. Would it be a place where there is active recreation, a place to eat,

somewhere to shop, somewhere where you can hang out with your friends, or maybe some place where you and your

family could visit on the weekend or in the summer?

What is your least favorite photo? What about it makes it the least interesting to you?

Think about an older sibling or cousin, your parents, and your grandparents. Which of these photos do you think would appeal

to them the most?

Think about the photo that you thought most represents your likes and interests today. Do you think 10 years from now this

same photo would still represent your likes and interests?

How can we find things that appeal to all age groups?

B ‐ 9

APPENDIX B

Moderator Notes:

Equal split – shopping vs. sports

Most Interested: Swimming Pools

Least Interested: Fishing Recycling Bike Park

Comments:

Mom likes walking trails. Pools need a good deep end and a diving board. Recycling would be more interesting if we did it in school.

The whole family would enjoy lake activities like swimming and canoeing. Owasso needs a college and more sports.

B ‐ 10

APPENDIX B Exercise 4: What Do You Think is Important?

Students were given the opportunity to write down, from their perspective, what three things were most important to kids, adults and parents and senior citizens and grandparents. The images at the bottom of this page illustrate the students responses. While they de‐ liberated and as they wrote, they were posed the following questions for discussion.

How would you characterize the types of things you think kids most enjoy in our community? Are they largely recreational

activities? Parks? Shopping and retail? Improvements to streets?

How would you characterize the types of things you think your parents or other adults enjoy the most in our community?

How would you characterize the types of things you think your grandparents or other senior citizens enjoy the most in our

community?

What’s different about the things you enjoy and the things your parents enjoy?

What about the difference between you and your grandparents?

If there were one new thing that could be built in Owasso that would appeal to all three of these groups, what would it be?

Why do you think that would appeal to all three age groups?

Think about Owasso as it is today. Which of these age groups do you think Owasso is most oriented toward? Why do you think

this is?

Do you think you can help make Owasso more youth‐friendly?

B ‐ 11

APPENDIX B

The moderator of exercise four noted the following:

Recurring Themes: Recreation, being out‐ doors, walking trails when brother is prac‐ ticing sports, family places, indoor and out‐ door concert hall, parks.

Kids need more to do. Community Center should hold dances. Owasso is oriented toward grown‐ups

B ‐ 12

APPENDIX B GENERAL WORKSHOP COMMENTS The following comments were noted by consultants:

Kids don’t get a lot of say – but parents do.

Want to keep trees and flowers.

Park is too far away and no sidewalk. It should be closer to home.

Rock climbing, miniature golf, baseball.

Need “not so scary” skate park and swimming pool.

No festivals in parking lots. More concerts and plays.

I don’t fish but I know people who do. Incorporate fishing into parks.

Traffic sometimes takes too long. Wal‐Mart area is worst and Blockbusters and Reasors. Not enough lanes.

Skate park is not safe. Bigger, lighting.

No malls, more quaint local antique shops.

Outlet mall, Del Taco, Incredible Pizza type places.

Bricktown.

We should be able to brag on our community.

Water areas are really pretty. Things are looking nice.

Sidewalks still too bumpy. Street is straight shot, sidewalk is not. Streets can flood. We need sidewalk to stay dry.

Need more benches and tables to hang out with friends.

Bowling alley and movies are boring. Need pavilion.

Splash pad for teenagers and bigger. Not just kids.

Community pool. My neighborhood doesn’t have one. Big with a deep end.

B ‐ 13

APPENDIX C

APPENDIX C

OWASSO QUALITY OF LIFE INITIATIVE WIKIPLANNING ON‐LINE CIVIC ENGAGEMENT CAMPAIGN

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY AND SURVEY DATA

NOTE: The following Wikiplanning information does not include the entire Civic Engagement Campaign Report. The full report is available through the City of Owasso website (www.CityofOwasso.com).

C‐ 1

APPENDIX C

C ‐ 2

APPENDIX C

C ‐ 3

APPENDIX C

C ‐ 4

APPENDIX C

C ‐ 5

APPENDIX C

C ‐ 6

APPENDIX C

C ‐ 7

APPENDIX C

C ‐ 8

APPENDIX C

C ‐ 9

APPENDIX C

C ‐ 10

APPENDIX C

Owasso Quality of Life Initiative ‐ Summary of Wikiplanning Comments Prepared by Alaback Design Associates – July 27, 2010

The following is a summary of the responses received to the Wikiplanning survey question: “In your opinion, what are the things about Owasso that make it a great place to live, work, or visit?” 143 responses were submitted, and the following provides a general‐ ized assessment of the responses by listing the number of times a specific comment was mentioned. Specific comments were grouped into the general categories that are shown in the following table.

Comment

Sense of Community / The People / Family‐Friendly / Caring Good Schools Safe / Low Crime (Good Police and Fire Department) Good Shopping and Dining Small Town Feel / Atmosphere Proximity to Tulsa /Convenient Location Good Facilities (Don’t Have to Go to Tulsa) Good Youth Sports Clean / Attractive Community Faith/Spiritual Emphasis Good Neighborhoods (Safe and Affordable) Progressive City/ Forward‐Thinking Health Care Good Parks Open Space Low Traffic Congestion History Walking Trails

Number of Occurrences 70 56 45 45 32 25 17 15 9 8 7 2 2 1 1 1 1 1

C ‐ 11

APPENDIX C

Owasso Quality of Life Initiative ‐ Summary of Wikiplanning Comments Prepared by Alaback Design Associates – July 27, 2010

The following is a summary of the responses received to the Wikiplanning survey question: “If you could change ONE thing about Owasso to make it a better community, what would it be?” 394 responses were submitted, and the following provides a generalized assessment of the responses by listing the number of times a specific comment was mentioned. Specific comments were grouped into the general categories that are shown in the following table.

Traffic Related Comments Fix Roads / Better Roads Better Traffic Planning / Flow In and Out of Owasso Traffic Light Timing Add Sidewalks and Make Safe Crosswalks Over 169 Bike Lanes on Streets Widen Streets Boulevard All 4 Lane Streets / Landscape While Widening Add Bus Transportation / Vanpooling Widen 86th Street Widen 116th Beautify 129th Make All Arterial Streets 4 Lane More 5 Lane Roads With Shoulders Better Traffic Enforcement Make Walkways More Accessible For Seniors Add Roundabouts Instead Of 4 Way Stops Widen 76th To Stone Canyon

C ‐ 12

Number of Occurrences 27 19 16 13 12 4 3 3 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

APPENDIX C

Traffic Related Comments (Continued) Widen 169 To Collinsville Widen Streets around Sports Park Change Out Street Lights with New Poles Like Downtown Landscape‐Planning Related Comments Community Image Clean Up Main Street / Enhance Downtown / Old Town Create Landscape and Architectural Standards Bury Power Lines More Trees Gateway / Enhance Arrival into Owasso City Needs Fence Ordinance / Repair Fences Better Quality Homes / Neighborhoods Beautify Town Landscape The High School Keep Open Fields Mowed Clean Up Rubble at Golf Course on 86th from 75 Downtown Identity Continue Character Traits Remove Character Traits Remove Litter Paint Ram on Water Tower

Number of Occurrences 1 1 1 Number of Occurrences 14 5 4 3 3 2 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

C ‐ 13

APPENDIX C

Policy / City Government Related Comments

C ‐ 14

No More Apartments Curbside Recycling Improve Police Attract More Professional Jobs Senior Living / Housing More Affordable Housing Stronger Enforcement of Gang / Drug Laws Add Second High School More Elementary Schools Increase School Budgets Transparency from Elected Officials Require Developers to Pay for Amenities Better Hospital / Full Service Hospital More Teachers Limit New Housing Additions Light Ordinance for Star Viewing Street Flooding Add Resource Officers to Schools Better Pay for City Employees Lower Property Taxes Dog Barking Laws Enact Neighborhood Watch Increase Speed Limits Water Source Redistrict Elementary Schools Make Owasso English Only

Number of Occurrences 11 7 7 6 5 4 4 3 2 2 2 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

APPENDIX C Parks and Recreation Related Comments Community Swimming Pool / Water Park More Walking /Bike Trails Better Sports Complex Better Baseball Recreation Center More Parks and Outdoor Entertainment Options Better Football Facilities Community Fairgrounds / Festival Area / Amphitheater Public Fishing Area / Lake More Open Space / Nature Areas Playgrounds and Picnic Areas Better Softball Facilities Build Another YMCA / Expand Mountain Biking Turn Rock Quarry Into a Lake City Run Sports Program (Not FOR) Dog Park Fine Arts Center Outdoor Exercise Area More Youth Programs BMX Senior Community Center Public Tennis Courts Better Basketball Facilities

Number of Occurrences 45 44 36 17 17 14 13 8 4 4 4 4 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

C ‐ 15

APPENDIX C

Shopping / Entertainment Related Comments

Book Store Mini Golf Town Square Area / Utica Square Area More Things For Teenagers / Young Adults Better Entertainment Options More Retail Sam’s Club / Costco Better Nightlife / Bars / Comedy Club More Restaurants More Music Festivals / Cultural Events Amusement Park Farmers Market Expansion Healthier Restaurants River Park Area / Lake Front With Retail Low Cost Entertainment More Grocery Choices Sporting Goods Store Add a Mall Add Upscale Restaurant

C ‐ 16

Number of Occurrences 12 8 6 6 5 5 5 4 3 3 3 3 2 2 2 2 2 1 1

Seafood Restaurant

1

Spirit Bank Event Center

1

Roller Skating Rink

1

Ice Rink

1

Community Theater

1

Concerts at Smith Farm

1