Bicycle Friendly Community

Tulsa, OK | Bronze Level

Community Highlights: Tulsa is truly changing the way it thinks about bicycling. Through private donation and public funds the city has dedicated nearly $15.5 million to enhance the Tulsa River Parks Tail system. The plan creates a dual-trail system to separate bicycle and pedestrian traffic on the often used River Parks trail system. The first phase of the project opened in March 2008 and includes a one-mile stretch from 21st Street to the Pedestrian Bridge. The second phase, between 11th and 21st Streets opened in May 2008. The third phase, between 31st and 48th streets is under construction throughout 2009. When the project is finished, there will be dual trails stretching for 12 miles on the east and west banks of the river where space permits, and 20 foot wide trials where space does not permit dual-trails. The $15 million project also includes new lighting fixtures, park furniture, and new trash receptacles.

Most Compelling Community Statistic: The Tulsa River Parks Authority has deployed 75 pink Tulsa Townie bicycles that are free to rent for 24 hours. The bicycles are located along River Parks and may be picked up and returned to any bike rack along the Arkansas River. Since the program began in summer 2008, there have been 13,000 checkouts of the bicycles!