New Traffic Signals Activated in North Tulsa
Location: Tulsa, Okla.
The City of Tulsa and the North Tulsa Economic Development Initiative (NTEDi) have launched new traffic signals at the intersection of North Peoria Avenue and East Mohawk Boulevard, marking a significant improvement on the North Peoria corridor.
The new signals became operational on Friday, September 4, as part of the Peoria Connection initiative. This project, funded by Vision, aims to enhance North Peoria Avenue from 56th Street North to Mohawk Boulevard.
Importance of the New Signals
Business owners Damali Wilson and Charles Harper, who have managed the 36th Street North Event Center for a decade, emphasize the need for improved lighting and traffic control to make the area more attractive and safe for visitors. Wilson notes that better illumination and traffic management could make the corridor more inviting, encouraging people to explore local businesses.
“To create an inviting atmosphere, we need to have lighting,” said Wilson, highlighting the area’s previous darkness. She hopes the upgrades will encourage walking, biking, and more local exploration.
Overview of Peoria Connection
The Peoria Connection is a collaborative effort involving the City of Tulsa, the Tulsa Planning Office, and NTEDi. The initiative is focused on increasing the appeal of the North Peoria corridor to encourage new development and foster community pride.
NTEDi President Lana Turner-Addison remarked on the historical safety issues in the corridor, emphasizing that the new infrastructure opens the door for increased investment in North Tulsa.
Future Improvements
The activation of the traffic signals is just one aspect of the broader Peoria Connection initiative, which includes:
- New trees along Peoria Avenue (in partnership with Up With Trees)
- New streetlight poles (in collaboration with Public Service Company of Oklahoma)
- A storm sewer project at 52nd Street North
- Community cleanup events
- Decorative streetlight poles and banners along the corridor
Additional projects funded separately include street rehabilitation between 36th and 56th Streets North and sidewalk improvements along Peoria Avenue.
Impact on Local Businesses
Harper notes the positive transformations he has observed since opening the event center, including improved infrastructure and reduced speed limits. He expressed hope that these changes will encourage children to walk and bike safely in the area, fostering a sense of community for future generations.
Wilson also believes that enhanced visibility of local businesses will draw more attention from drivers, enhancing their overall experience in the area.
What’s Next for NTEDi?
Turner-Addison confirmed that these new traffic signals are part of a larger goal to revitalize North Tulsa through investment and community involvement. The ongoing collaboration with city officials, residents, and local organizations aims to create a safer and more welcoming environment for everyone.
For both Wilson and Harper, these changes promise a brighter future for North Tulsa, benefiting residents, businesses, and visitors alike.
