Summer heat and dry conditions have reduced foot traffic in Tulsa’s parks, zoo and golf courses — and increased costs of irrigation and keeping vegetation alive.
Some foundation inspections are also needed as a result of the heat, according to acting parks director Stacie Martin said during an Oct. 6 Parks and Recreation board meeting. In a statement to the Flyer, city officials confirmed the two sites are Oxley Nature Center, 6700 Mohawk Blvd., and Whiteside Park, 4009 S. Pittsburg Ave.
“The Whiteside gym has occasionally been closed for related inspections,” said city spokesperson Carson Colvin. “Access could be limited as additional inspections are scheduled, and we’ll try to stay on top of communicating that via our Parks page and at each facility.”
Weather-related challenges are nothing new for Tulsa parks. Mohawk Park’s golf course was closed for 38 days this spring due to flooding.
Discovered by Documenters
This story was informed by Madelyn Sugg’s Documenter notes from the Oct. 6 Parks and Recreation Board meeting. Find out more about how Tulsa Documenters works here.
The department is working with user groups and partners to identify ways to help address those challenges. Martin did not provide specific attendance figures or describe what assistance could involve during the discussion.
“Hot weather and the dry conditions mean less people are recreating in parks, and (it) also means that there are consequences,” said Martin.
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