Sand Springs holds Masonic ceremony at new freshman academy

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Sand Springs Public Schools officials, City of Sand Springs leaders, and other community members gathered together Friday afternoon at Charles Page High School for a Masonic Cornerstone Ceremony. State Representative Jadine Nollan and State Senator Allison Ikley-Freeman also attended as the Sand Springs Masonic Lodge set the ceremonial cornerstone on the recently completed freshman academy.

The district is putting the finishing touches on the new $14.28 million freshman academy and STEM center that will unify grades 9-12 on one campus for the first time in decades. The old Central Ninth Grade Center will now be utilized for administrative purposes, and will be offer lab space for virtual students to receive hands-on instruction outside of the regular classroom setting.

In addition to providing class space for the district’s freshmen, the new construction also offers a new central lobby, office space, STEM labs, and a freshman cafeteria. The first day of school for the district is set for August 24th. For families that aren’t comfortable with physical schooling this year, the district also offers blended learning and a virtual academy. The deadline to enroll in virtual schooling is Monday, August 17th at this link.

Sand Springs cuts ribbon on Zackery Park, Mayor Spoon proclaims Bessie Crawford Zackery Day

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The City of Sand Springs held a grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony at its newest park Thursday morning. City employees, elected officials, and family and friends of Bessie Crawford Zackery gathered to celebrate the commemorative park. Mayor Jim Spoon proclaimed August 13th as Bessie Crawford Zackery Day in honor of the late Sand Springs teacher.

Located at 100 West Alexander Boulevard, Zackery Park will serve as a reminder of the historic black neighborhood that once stood in what is now the River West shopping district. The small park is named for the Zackery family who lived in the area when it was still residential, and in particular for Bessie Crawford Zackery, who was a teacher in Sand Springs.

Bessie Zackery was class valedictorian at the Sand Springs Booker T. Washington High School in 1934, and went on to earn a bachelor’s degree from Langston University. She returned to Sand Springs and taught Art and Elementary Education at Booker T. Washington. Zackery reportedly spent summers at Colorado State Teachers College, Oklahoma State University, and the University of Tulsa taking graduate courses to keep Washington on the cutting edge. Zackery earned a Master’s of Teaching Arts from TU in 1959.

After 28 years at Washington, Zackery transferred to Limestone Elementary for the remainder of her career. She was named the Sand Springs Education Association 1978 Teacher of the Year, the Booker T. Washington Alumni Association 1981 Outstanding Alumnus, and the 1996 Sand Springs Hometown Hero. The Sand Springs Retired Educators Association and Oklahoma Retired Educators Association named her a Very Important Member, and in 1999 she was awarded the Ageless Hero Award by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Oklahoma.

Zackery Park is located at the southwest corner of the intersection of Alexander Boulevard and Booker T. Washington Avenue. The pedestrian sidewalk within the area has been named “Rambler Way” in honor of the Washington High School mascot.

There is a large detention pond adjacent to the park, and staff recently installed a fountain in the middle. A steel trellis was installed, along with a seat wall made from brick pavers that were salvaged from the old Booker T. Washington High School. There is also a concrete plaza and decorative plants, and informational signage will soon be installed.

The River West area is part of a revitalization effort by the City and was formerly one of the oldest and poorest residential neighborhoods in Sand Springs. The primarily African American district was demolished in the late 2000s, with the former Booker T. Washington High School coming down in 2010. Centennial Baptist Church is the last remnant of the historic community.

Since then, the district has added a new hotel, a minor emergency clinic, a TTCU branch, restaurants, a pharmacy, a grocery store, and a Starbucks. There is also a small strip center being constructed, and only a few plots of land are still available.

The community has already been memorialized in the naming of its two arterial streets. Booker T. Washington Avenue was named for the high school, while Alexander Boulevard was named for Albert Alexander. Alexander reportedly immigrated to Sand Springs following the 1921 massacre of black citizens in Tulsa. His obituary reads that Alexander was “the unofficial mayor of the black section of segregated Sand Springs because of the respect that both sides of the railroad tracks had for him.”

The Sand Springs Parks Department has several other projects underway around the city. The disc golf course in Case Community Park is getting a redesign by 2009 PDGA World Champion Avery Jenkins. The Canyons at Blackjack Ridge golf course is getting a major clubhouse remodel. There is a visitors’ center being constructed at the Keystone Ancient Forest, and an observation tower will be installed in the near future.

Sand Springs to hold grand opening of Zackery Park on August 13th

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City of Sand Springs employees, elected officials, and guests will gather August 13th at 10:00 a.m. to cut the ribbon on the city’s newest park.

Located at 100 West Alexander Boulevard, Zackery Park will serve as a reminder of the historic black neighborhood that once stood in what is now the River West shopping district. The small park is named for the Zackery family who lived in the area when it was still residential, and in particular for Bessie Crawford Zackery, who was a teacher in Sand Springs. Mayor Jim Spoon will also read a mayoral proclamation recognizing the day as Bessie Crawford Zackery Day.

Bessie Zackery was class valedictorian at the Sand Springs Booker T. Washington High School in 1934, and went on to earn a bachelor’s degree from Langston University. She returned to Sand Springs and taught Art and Elementary Education at Booker T. Washington. Zackery reportedly spent summers at Colorado State Teachers College, Oklahoma State University, and the University of Tulsa taking graduate courses to keep Washington on the cutting edge. Zackery earned a Master’s of Teaching Arts from TU in 1959.

After 28 years at Washington, Zackery transferred to Limestone Elementary for the remainder of her career. She was named the Sand Springs Education Association 1978 Teacher of the Year, the Booker T. Washington Alumni Association 1981 Outstanding Alumnus, and the 1996 Sand Springs Hometown Hero. The Sand Springs Retired Educators Association and Oklahoma Retired Educators Association named her a Very Important Member, and in 1999 she was awarded the Ageless Hero Award by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Oklahoma.

Zackery Park is located at the southwest corner of the intersection of Alexander Boulevard and Booker T. Washington Avenue. The pedestrian sidewalk within the area will also be named “Rambler Way” in honor of the Washington High School mascot.

There is currently a large detention pond adjacent to the park, and staff recently installed a fountain in the middle. A steel trellis was recently installed, along with a seat wall made from brick pavers that were salvaged from the old Booker T. Washington High School. There will also be a concrete plaza, informational signage, and decorative plants.

The River West area is part of a revitalization effort by the City and was formerly one of the oldest and poorest residential neighborhoods in Sand Springs. The primarily African American district was demolished in the late 2000s, with the former Booker T. Washington High School coming down in 2010. Centennial Baptist Church is the last remnant of the historic community.

Since then, the district has added a new hotel, a minor emergency clinic, a TTCU branch, restaurants, a pharmacy, a grocery store, and a Starbucks. There is also a small strip center being constructed, and only a few plots of land are still available.

The community has already been memorialized in the naming of its two arterial streets. Booker T. Washington Avenue was named for the high school, while Alexander Boulevard was named for Albert Alexander. Alexander reportedly immigrated to Sand Springs following the 1921 massacre of black citizens in Tulsa. His obituary reads that Alexander was “the unofficial mayor of the black section of segregated Sand Springs because of the respect that both sides of the railroad tracks had for him.”

The Sand Springs Parks Department has several other projects underway around the city. The disc golf course in Case Community Park is getting a redesign by 2009 PDGA World Champion Avery Jenkins. The Canyons at Blackjack Ridge golf course is getting a major clubhouse remodel. There is a visitors’ center being constructed at the Keystone Ancient Forest, and an observation tower will be installed in the near future.

OTC authorizes $95,000 in improvements for Industrial Avenue bridge in Sand Springs

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On Monday, Aug. 3, the Oklahoma Transportation Commission approved the nearly $880 million County Improvements for Roads and Bridges plan that has been updated for State Fiscal Years 2021 through 2025. The plan, managed by the Oklahoma Department of Transportation, is set to replace or rehabilitate 313 bridges on the county system – of which 151 are structurally deficient or functionally obsolete – and to improve 585 miles of county roads in the next five years.

“Oklahoma’s county road network accounts for 60 percent of the state’s bridges and 73 percent of its centerline miles on our state’s transportation system and this funding is fundamental to keeping the ‘off-system’ infrastructure online for years to come,” said Tim Gatz, Oklahoma secretary of transportation and ODOT executive director.

The plan is comprised of 209 projects with all 77 counties represented. The department works with the counties’ eight Circuit Engineering Districts to prioritize projects of the highest need in each county and make the most of state, federal, local and tribal funding sources. The plan allows counties to work together to pool resources to address high-priority projects too large for any one county to accomplish. By law, ODOT administers the plan and partners with the counties to oversee the state and federal funds incorporated into many projects.

The plan identifies funding for one project in Sand Springs. $85,000 has been set aside for either repairs to or replacement of the Industrial Avenue bridge over Sand Creek. $5,000 has been designated for right-of-way improvements on Industrial Avenue, and another $5,000 will be spent on utilities improvements.

Work underway at new Sand Springs park

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Sand Springs Parks staff have been hard at work on a new park in the RiverWest Shopping Center. Zackery Park will be named for the Zachery family who lived in the area when it was still residential, and in particular for Bessie Zackery, who was a teacher in Sand Springs.

Bessie Zackery was class valedictorian at the Sand Springs Booker T. Washington High School in 1934, and went on to earn a bachelor’s degree from Langston University. She returned to Sand Springs and taught Art and Elementary Education at Booker T. Washington. Zackery reportedly spent summers at Colorado State Teachers College, Oklahoma State University, and the University of Tulsa taking graduate courses to keep Washington on the cutting edge. Zackery earned a Master’s of Teaching Arts from TU in 1959.

After 28 years at Washington, Zackery transferred to Limestone Elementary for the remainder of her career. She was named the Sand Springs Education Association 1978 Teacher of the Year, the Booker T. Washington Alumni Association 1981 Outstanding Alumnus, and the 1996 Sand Springs Hometown Hero. The Sand Springs Retired Educators Association and Oklahoma Retired Educators Association named her a Very Important Member, and in 1999 she was awarded the Ageless Hero Award by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Oklahoma.

Zackery Park is located at the southwest corner of the intersection of Alexander Boulevard and Booker T. Washington Avenue. The pedestrian sidewalk within the area will also be named “Rambler Way” in honor of the Washington High School mascot.

There is currently a large detention pond adjacent to the park, and staff recently installed a fountain in the middle that will soon be activated. There will also be floating LED lights around the fountain. A steel trellis was recently installed, along with a seat wall made from brick pavers that were salvaged from the old Booker T. Washington High School. There will also be a concrete plaza, informational signage, and decorative plants.

The RiverWest area is part of a revitalization effort by the City and was formerly one of the oldest and poorest residential neighborhoods in Sand Springs. The primarily African American district was demolished in the late 2000s, with the former Booker T. Washington High School coming down in 2010. Centennial Baptist Church is the last remnant of the historic community.

Since then, the district has added a new hotel, a minor emergency clinic, a TTCU branch, restaurants, a pharmacy, a grocery store, and a Starbucks. There is also a small strip center being constructed, and only a few plots of land are still available.

The community has already been memorialized in the naming of its two arterial streets. Booker T. Washington Avenue was named for the high school, while Alexander Boulevard was named for Albert Alexander. Alexander reportedly immigrated to Sand Springs following the 1921 massacre of black citizens in Tulsa. His obituary reads that Alexander was “the unofficial mayor of the black section of segregated Sand Springs because of the respect that both sides of the railroad tracks had for him.”

The Sand Springs Parks Department has several other projects underway around the city. The disc golf course in Case Community Park is getting a redesign by 2009 PDGA World Champion Avery Jenkins. The Canyons at Blackjack Ridge golf course is getting a major clubhouse remodel. There is a visitors’ center being constructed at the Keystone Ancient Forest, and an observation tower will be installed in the near future. New sidewalks are being poured in Case Community Park, and the parking lot at the park’s largest playground is being improved.

Sand Springs Chamber of Commerce hires Kyle Smith as new President

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Erick Stuckey (left) welcomes Kyle Smith (right) to the Sand Springs Chamber of Commerce. (SUBMITTED).

The Sand Springs Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce the hiring of new President, Kyle Smith. After a four-month search process the Sand Springs Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors unanimously voted to employ Smith as the new head of the Chamber of Commerce. 

Smith is originally from Chicago and his career has led him through Detroit and eventually to Tulsa. He has extensive experience in sales and management and brings an exciting resume of experience to Sand Springs.

“Kyle has an energetic leadership style; this combined with experience in non-profit and for-profit management positions makes him uniquely qualified to lead the Sand Springs Chamber,” said Erik Stuckey, the Chairman of the Sand Springs Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. 

Smith has worked for Enterprise Rent-a-Car, Pfizer Inc, and multiple pharmaceutical companies. For the past five years, Smith has led the management team for Workforce Tulsa in both their Tulsa and Sapulpa locations.

“I’m both humbled and excited to work with the Sand Springs Chamber. To take the role as President will be challenging but I know with help from this historic community and guidance from above, we will have a mutually beneficial relationship,” Smith said.

The Sand Springs Chamber of Commerce currently has 264 active members and is growing.  Over the past few years, the Chamber has focused its effort on the launch of the Webco Industries Center for Entrepreneurial Engagement, which currently houses a co-working space and a new business incubator. 

“As a former Project Director and One Stop Operator, overseeing the day to day operations was nothing short of a learning journey. I believe those roles have prepared me to be a leader and performer. I hope to keep that standard of excellence with the Sand Springs Chamber of Commerce.”  Smith said.

The Chamber of Commerce is in the process of re-opening from the COVID-19 closures.  Should things continue a re-opening path many of the Chamber events will resume over the summer and fall. For more information on future events, visit the Sand Springs Chamber of Commerce Facebook page or the website at www.SandSpringsChamber.com.

Tulsa Federal Credit Union branch in Prattville Reasor's to close June 30

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Tulsa Federal Credit Union announced Tuesday that the Prattville branch located inside the Sand Springs Reasor’s grocery store will be closing at the end of the month.

“Tulsa Federal Credit Union leadership, along with the Board of Directors, have made the difficult decision not to renew our lease for the Prattville Reasor’s branch located at 3825 State Highway 97, Sand Springs, OK 74063,” reads the public statement. “A Tulsa FCU ATM will remain accessible inside the Prattville Reasor’s store indefinitely, but the last day of business at this location will be June 30, 2020.

Since this branch opened in 2012, it has contributed greatly to our growth and success in the Sand Springs area. While Prattville has been an integral part of that success, the majority of member activity at Prattville are simple transactions which can still be done through our ATM on location or via Online/Mobile Banking. In addition, we believe we can more adequately service our Prattville and Sand Springs membership through our traditional branch located at 220 Jefferson Street, Sand Springs, OK 74063.

Our branches continue to be a vital channel to deliver products and services to our membership, potential members, and our community. To sustain our branches’ livelihood in an industry with ever-evolving technology, we must strategically invest in our branch infrastructure to grow and improve our branch network. Our recent branch renovations and new branch in Midtown Tulsa, which opens later this summer, are evidence of that commitment.

Financially, Tulsa FCU remains strong as we approach $800 million in assets with more than 56,300 of members. The current employees of the Prattville branch have been offered comparable positions within our organization.

Our primary objective through this closure is to provide you with the same exceptional member service and convenience you have come to expect from us. Depending on your needs, there are several ways you can continue your relationship with us.

  • The in-store ATM at the Prattville Reasor’s will still be available 24/7/365 to process cash and check deposits, cash withdrawals and transfers.

  • Visit one of our other 12 Tulsa FCU locations including our Sand Springs location which is only 3 miles from the Prattville branch.

  • Whether you are currently using online/mobile banking or not, there are many features you may benefit from utilizing like bill pay, automated transfers, mobile check deposit, and a robust money management portal.

  • The Member CARE Center is available at 918.610.0200, Monday - Thursday, 8:00 am to 5:30 pm, Friday, 8:00 am to 6:00 pm.

  • Tulsa FCU is a shared branching network partner which means our members can handle basic transactions at any credit union in the CO-OP network nationwide. There are several locations near the Prattville location, including Green Country FCU located at 3350 South 113th, Sand Springs, OK 74063.

We would like to thank you for your membership and are grateful for the trust you place in us as your financial partner. We look forward to continuing to serve you into the future.”

Sand Springs Chick-fil-A to open drive-through and curbside pickup on June 4th

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The new Chic-fil-A restaurant in Sand Springs will hold a limited opening on Thursday, June 4th. The restaurant lobby will not be open, but the drive-through and curbside pickup will be available from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

The fast-food chain announced it would be building in Sand Springs in December as the first business in the City of Sand Springs-owned Sheffield Crossing shopping center.

The City of Sand Springs recently completed work on a new Highway 97 intersection, complete with a new four-way stoplight. The light has not yet been activated, but should be turned on at least a week before the restaurant opens.

Chick-fil-A is a family-owned company based in Atlanta, founded by S. Truett Cathy in 1967. The franchise operates more than 2,500 restaurants in 47 states, Washington, D.C., and Canada. Newsweek’s 2019 America’s Best Customer Service report named Chic-fil-A the top fast food restaurant in the country.

Typically, new Chic-fil-A restaurants open with fanfare and giveaways, but those details have not yet been released for the Sand Springs location.

Sand Springs Parks Department unveils latest plans for new disc golf course, seeks community input

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The Sand Springs Parks Department has released the latest plans for a new disc golf course redesign and is asking for community feedback.

The new layout will be located in the same general area as the existing course, but will add increased hole-length, professional signage, new tee pads, and will utilize the wooded areas under the Highway 97 bridge among other changes. The course is being designed by 2009 PDGA World Champion Avery Jenkins.

Disc Golf first came to Case Community Park (then dubbed River City Park) in 2012 after existing baskets were relocated from a nine-hole course at Ray Brown Park. The new course used two alternate natural tees per basket to create an 18-hole layout that was often crowded since two groups could be playing towards the same basket at the same time. The course was located along the creek at the entrance to the park.

During a $6 million remodel of the park in 2017, a roadway, parking lot, and splash pad were constructed in the middle of the existing course, and the baskets were relocated to the deepest part of the grounds near the BMX track. The current course features a full 18 holes with few overlapping fairways and professional concrete tees. There are, however, several holes that throw across the walking trail, and the new course will aim to eliminate those safety issues.

The new proposed course design was created by DiscGolfPark, a multi-national corporation headquartered in Tampere, Finland. The Sand Springs course will be the first DiscGolfPark in Oklahoma and the fourth layout designed by Jenkins, who is a touring member of Team Discmania. Jenkins previously designed Shady Rest DiscGolfPark in Mammoth Lakes, California, LHC DiscGolfPark in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and co-designed The Sanctuary DiscGolfPark in Delta, Ohio. He is a transplant to Oklahoma, and currently lives in Pawhuska where he manages The Lodge at Taylor Ranch disc golf courses. Jenkins’s course designs average a 4.2 out of 5 rating on U-Disc, the official score app of the PDGA.

DiscGolfPark uses several unique concepts, including a turf tee pad. Most Oklahoma courses utilize concrete tees, but the turf pads are well reviewed by touring professionals like Paul McBeth and Simon Lizotte who praise the natural look and feel. The tees are also safer than concrete tees, which are easy for an inattentive player to trip over.

The new course will come with all new baskets and will also include a large Info Board showing the course layout, rules and guidelines. All of the new equipment will come with warranties.

The proposed Sand Springs layout will feature 18 tees with two permanent basket placements per hole. Unlike some area courses, which alternate baskets between long and short placements, the Sand Springs course will have short and long baskets at the same time. This creative layout will allow more experienced players to play alongside their lesser-experienced friends, or for players to play a full 36 holes.

The shorter “White” layout will be a par 54 at a total of 4690 feet, with holes ranging from 205 to 460. For comparison, the current layout is a par 54 at a total of 4212 feet, with holes ranging from 142 to 349. The longer “Blue” layout will be a par 56 at a total of 6226 feet, with holes ranging from 225 to 635.

The newest layout design isn’t final, as the department is still seeking input from local players. Parks staff plan on marking tee and basket locations within the next week, weather permitting, so that players can walk the course and get a feel for the changes.

Case Community Park is the flagship of the Sand Springs Parks Department, located at 2500 South River City Park Road along the Arkansas River. The 100-acre grounds include baseball, softball, soccer, and BMX complexes, a Community Center, a splash pad, four playgrounds, a skate park, a trail system, an amphitheater, horseshoe pits, basketball and volleyball courts, and more.

The playgrounds and sports courts are currently closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but the disc golf course, walking trails, and green space are still open, though patrons are encouraged to remain ten feet apart at all times. Parks staff have been periodically disinfecting the golf baskets throughout the day.

A new roadway is also planned that will allow visitors to cross over the river levee that surrounds the park. This will create a park entrance from the Sheffield Crossing development near the disc golf course and softball/BMX complexes. A paved parking lot is also planned.

Sand Springs breaks ground on new Keystone Ancient Forest Visitor Center

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Just 11 minutes west of downtown Sand Springs and 20 minutes west of downtown Tulsa sits one of Oklahoma’s most unique and beautiful nature preserves. The Keystone Ancient Forest spans 1,360 acres featuring 300-year-old post oaks and 500-year-old cedars, with wildlife, gorgeous scenery, and a fascinating history.

The City of Sand Springs recently broke ground on a new $927,000 visitor center at the preserve. The 2,000 sq. ft. facility will be funded through a 2017 general obligation bond election with philanthropic contribution from the Sharna and Irvin Frank Family Foundation.

The two-story building is designed by Studio 45 Architects of Tulsa and will feature a glassed-in multi-function observation floor and restroom facilities along with storage space for park maintenance equipment. Construction is expected to be complete by 2021 and will be contracted to Bravo Builders.

The City of Sand Springs first began acquiring the KAF land in 2001 and it opened to visitors in 2007. It has steadily grown over the years in both overall size and trail length. There are approximately eight miles of varying trail difficulties, including a 0.6 mile ADA accessible paved trail.

The park is different from hiking trails like Turkey Mountain because it is only open on specific Saturdays from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. with park staff present in order to ensure the integrity of the grounds. It is vandalism free and virtually devoid of trash. In addition to regular hikes, there are also Hike With Your Dog Days and an annual Ancient 5K run.

One of the most unique features of the park is its history. The forest is described in the journals of famed American author and explorer Washington Irving, who traveled through it in 1832 on a month-long military expedition into Indian Territory.

Also in the works for the forest is a 100-foot fire lookout tower that the City recently purchased. The disused tower was acquired at a cost of $108,000 from Cookson, Oklahoma. It is listed on the National Historic Lookout Register and will give visitors the opportunity to see from above the forest canopy. That project will go out to bid this summer.

Keystone Ancient Forest is located at 160 Ancient Forest Drive in Sand Springs, Oklahoma. Dogs are only permitted on specific days. Trail guides are on-hand to provide trail directions.

The forest is currently closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. “Because of 2 recent back to back record attendance weekend hikes with more than 300-400 in attendance, and because we operate the preserve as a scheduled hiking facility, we were advised against promoting hiking as that could be considered invitation of public gatherings during this time of social distancing,” reads a statement from Parks Director Jeff Edwards. The rest of Sand Springs’s public trail system remains open.

New Construction Homes Coming to Sand Springs with Stone Villa II by Capital Homes

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Submitted.

(Sand Springs, OK) - Sand Springs house hunters can now reserve home sites with local home builder Capital Homes at Stone Villa II.

“We are very excited to be building in the Sand Springs community again,” Capital Homes Vice President of Sales Michael Sorrell said. “With Stone Villa II, we want to bring value through a wide range of high quality homes at a more affordable price.”

Located off of 51st Street West between Highway 97 and 129th East Avenue, the subdivision is near to retail and restaurants in the Prattville area, and within walking distance to Angus Valley Elementary. This new community will feature both single-story and two-story homes ranging from 1,400 to 2,308 sq. ft. with 3-5 bedrooms and 2-3.5 bathrooms. Homes will begin under $200k.

Groundbreaking on the model home has begun, with construction on the first four homes to follow throughout the month of March. The development will consist of two phases, with a total of 87 homes. Home sites are now available for reservation.

Capital Homes invites the public to schedule a preview appointment by contacting Amanda Connolly at amanda@capitalhomes.com or call 918-630-9633.

Sand Springs City Council honors outgoing Chamber of Commerce President Kristen Cepak

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The Sand Springs City Council honored outgoing Chamber of Commerce President Kristen Cepak with a Certificate of Appreciation for her years of service at their recent Monday meeting. Cepak recently announced she will be moving to Texas to care for her ailing parents, but hopes to return to Sand Springs in the future.

Mayor Jim Spoon recognized Cepak for nurturing relationships between the City government, the School District, and local businesses. Cepak has overseen a period of significant growth in Chamber membership, has helped grow the annual Chillin ‘n’ Grillin Festival, and launched a Hometown Holiday Christmas Festival. She oversaw the return of the Leadership Sand Springs program, the launch of the Small Business Initiative, and the expansion of the Chamber into a new building with the creation of a business incubator.

The Chamber of Commerce is still accepting applications for the President position. For more information, visit this link.

In other news:

Council unanimously approved a specific use permit allowing Eagle’s View RV Park to expand into an adjacent property at 20601 West Wekiwa Road. 

Council approved a specific use permit for a marijuana growing facility at 1150 East Charles Page Boulevard. Jinyu Green, LLC plans to open the facility in a building adjoining the old K-Mart building at the Harris Shopping Center. Council had a split 5-2 vote with Councilors Brian Jackson, Phil Nollan, Mike Burdge, Patty Dixon, and Jim Spoon voting in favor with Nancy Riley and Beau Wilson dissenting. 

Council unanimously approved an Engineering Design Agreement with Keithline Engineering for work relating to ten downtown asphalt overlay project.

Council unanimously approved two interlocal agreements with Tulsa County for 41 other overlay projects throughout residential neighborhoods on both sides of the river. 17 projects are scheduled for Fall of 2020 and 24 are scheduled for Fall of 2021. 

Council unanimously approved a $48,990 expense to purchase a golf simulator from Trackman Simulator Solutions for the Canyons at Blackjack Ridge golf clubhouse. The simulator will expand the ability of the course pros to offer private lessons and training. The funding will be provided by a 2018 General Obligation bond election.

Council unanimously approved a zoning change from Agricultural to Commercial Shopping for the former ODOT building on the southeast corner of 41st Street and Highway 97. The land was recently sold at auction to a developer who is planning an Urgent Care facility for the location.

Council unanimously approved a resolution awarding the Keystone Ancient Forest Visitor Center construction project to Bravo Builders. The $927,000 facility will serve as the face of the historic nature preserve and hiking grounds that have been steadily growing as a regional destination for nature lovers across Oklahoma. The building is expected to be completed by the New Year of 2021.

Observation tower being purchased for Keystone Ancient Forest.

Council also unanimously approved a transfer of appropriations of $108,000 from the Highway Brush Removal/Cleanup fund to the Keystone Ancient Forest Observation Tower fund. The City will be purchasing a disused 100-foot fire lookout tower from the Oklahoma Forestry Service. The “Beaver Tower” is currently located in Cookson, Oklahoma and is listed with the National Historic Lookout Register as an item of historical and cultural significance.

Council unanimously approved a $28,038 expenditure to Aaron Fence Co. for fencing repairs at the Will Ramsey Softball Complex in Case Community Park. 

Council unanimously approved a fourth one-year extension to the existing mowing contract with Precision Lawncare of Tulsa, LLC. The extended contract will last through June 30, 2021 at a cost of $258,734 then will go up for public bid in 2021. 

Council unanimously approved the final plat for the Second Sunrise Addition, a one-block five-lot subdivision on the northeast corner of 6th Street and Industrial Avenue.

Sand Springs Disc Golf Course to receive new professional redesign by World Champion Avery Jenkins

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The Sand Springs Parks Advisory Board heard plans for a new disc golf course layout at their Monday evening meeting. The new layout will be located in the same general area as the existing course, but will add increased hole-length, professional signage, new tee pads, and will utilize the wooded areas under the Highway 97 bridge among other changes. The course is being designed by 2009 PDGA World Champion Avery Jenkins.

Disc Golf first came to Case Community Park (then dubbed River City Park) in 2012 after existing baskets were relocated from a nine-hole course at Ray Brown Park. The new course used two alternate natural tees per basket to create an 18-hole layout that was often crowded since two groups could be playing towards the same basket at the same time. The course was located along the creek at the entrance to the park.

Following a $6 million remodel of the park in 2017, a roadway, parking lot, and splash pad were constructed in the middle of the existing course, and the baskets were relocated to the deepest part of the grounds near the BMX track. The current course features a full 18 holes with few overlapping fairways and professional concrete tees. There are, however, several holes that throw across the walking trail, and the new course will eliminate those safety issues.

The new proposed course design was created by DiscGolfPark, a multi-national corporation headquartered in Tampere, Finland. The Sand Springs course will be the first DiscGolfPark in Oklahoma and the third layout designed by Jenkins, who is a touring member of Team Innova. Jenkins previously designed LHC DiscGolfPark in Baton Rouge, Louisiana and co-designed The Sanctuary DiscGolfPark in Delta, Ohio. He is a transplant to Oklahoma, and currently lives in Pawhuska where he helps manage The Lodge at Taylor Ranch disc golf courses.

DiscGolfPark uses several unique concepts, including a turf tee pad. Most Oklahoma courses utilize concrete tees, but the turf pads are well reviewed by touring professionals like Paul McBeth and Simon Lizotte who praise the natural look and feel. The tees are also safer than concrete tees, which are easy for an inattentive player to trip over.

The new course will come with all new baskets and will also include a large Info Board showing the course layout, rules and guidelines. All of the new equipment will come with warranties.

The proposed Sand Springs layout checks in at 6680 feet with a par of 57, including three par 4s. Hole 4 will be the longest at a whopping 820 feet, followed by Hole 18 at 640 feet. The overall square footage of the course will increase significantly with expansions north of the BMX track service road and deeper into the woods beneath the Highway 97 bridge.

Those longer distances won’t be permanent, however, as the course will have multiple pin locations. During tournaments the course directors will be able to move the baskets to their longest length, then the baskets will be moved back for year-round recreational play. Parks staff want the course to be desirable for professionals, beginners, and everyone in between.

The Tulsa metropolitan area is considered by many to be the Mecca of disc golf, with dozens of courses and over 4,000 members in the Tulsa Disc Golf Facebook group. The Tulsa Disc Sports Association hosts weekly mini-tournaments during the summer months and Tulsa even hosted the Am World Championships in 2006.

The newest layout design isn’t final, as the Parks Advisory Board voted Monday to allow the course to utilize a two-acre field that was previously designated an “avoidance area.” The field once housed the Sand Springs Round Up Club rodeo arena, which was demolished in 2018. The area was initially intended to be used as a possible practice field for youth sports teams, but that plan was scrapped due to limited parking.

Jenkins is also waiting for contractors to finishing clearing overgrowth before he submits his final plans. Significant work is already underway along the river and under the Highway 97 bridge. Workers are increasing the amount of playable land, as well as increasing the aesthetic appeal and river view. The final plans will then have to be approved by the Advisory Board and the City Council.

Case Community Park is the flagship of the Sand Springs Parks Department, located at 2500 South River City Park Road along the Arkansas River. The 100-acre grounds include baseball, softball, soccer, and BMX complexes, a Community Center, a splash pad, four playgrounds, a skate park, a trail system, an amphitheater, horseshoe pits, basketball and volleyball courts, and more. The entire park was submerged during historic flooding in May of 2019, but the last of the repairs are expected to be complete in time for the spring softball and baseball seasons.

A new roadway is also planned that will allow visitors to cross over the river levee that surrounds the park. This will create a park entrance from the Sheffield Crossing development near the disc golf course and softball/BMX complexes.

Webco Industries to relocate Corporate Headquarters to former Rader Juvenile Center site in Sand Springs

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The Sand Springs City Council authorized the sale of the former Rader Juvenile Detention Center to Webco Industries Monday evening, and approved the creation of a Review Committee to create a plan for a possible Tax Increment District.

The Sand Springs Economic Development Authority (SSEDA) has agreed to sell 48 acres to one of Sand Springs’ biggest employers, allowing the company to create a new leadership campus on the site.

Webco’s corporate headquarters is located in Sand Springs, as is the Southwest Tube and the Star Center Tube manufacturing facilities. Other Oklahoma locations include manufacturing plants in Kellyville and Mannford, and a distribution facility in Tulsa.

The company employs approximately 1,300 individuals nationwide and recently celebrated 50 years of operations by holding a festival at Case Community Park in Sand Springs, in which the public was invited. Webco employs 150 individuals at their corporate office, 250 at Southwest Tube, and 217 at Star Center Tube. The company generated over $500 million in revenue last year.

Webco previously purchased the 154 acres adjacent to the Rader facilities in 2012, which then housed the disused Hissom Memorial Center. Hissom was a state-run institution for individuals with developmental disabilities that was forced to shut down in 1994. When Webco purchased the property they constructed the 400,000 square foot Star Center manufacturing facility.

The City has previously created two different Tax Increment Districts. The first time was to incentivize Walmart to open their current north-side store. The second location was the Hissom site purchased by Webco. Webco has invested over $80 million in the Hissom site, and created over 150 jobs.

According to City Councilman and SSEDA Chairman Phil Nollan, “the TIF (Tax Increment Financing) is to help support infrastructure, development of the site, organizational costs, stormwater systems, and industrial roads,” and to re-open an existing railroad crossing that has been disused since Rader closed. Webco is requesting up to $3.6 million in tax incentive.

The new facility will be called the F. William Weber Center for Leadership and will house the Webco Technology Center, Webco University, and eventually the Corporate Headquarters. This will not only preserve the existing 150 corporate jobs, but will allow Webco to continue to grow and invest in the Sand Springs community.

Before the TID is created, a Review Committee consisting of government and citizen representatives will be formed to provide recommendations and input on the proposed project plan. There will be one City Council representative, one Planning Commission representative, one Tulsa County representative, one Tulsa County Health Department representative, one Sand Springs Public Schools representative, one Tulsa Technology Center representative, one Tulsa Community College representative, one Tulsa City-County Library representative, and three representatives of the public at large, who will be appointed by City Council.

The Review Committee and the Planning Commission will both review the proposed project plan and make recommendations to City Council. Monday night’s resolution also authorized the City to enter into a Project Cost Advancement and Eligibility Agreement with Webco as project developer.

Webco has agreed to advance cost of up to $65,000.00 for professional services relating to the preparation, review, consideration, and possible approval of the project plan.

In other news:

Council unanimously approved a renewal of a memorandum of understanding with the Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office for third party reporting in line with the the Prison Rape Elimination Act. SSPD handles all sexual assault reports of Tulsa County inmates to ensure accountability.

Council unanimously approved final payment of $97,120.00 to Play By Design for installing new playground surfaces in Case Community Park, which was heavily damaged by flooding in May of 2019.

Council unanimously approved a resolution disclaiming any interest in lawsuits surrounding a new pipeline. Phillips 66 has filed three condemnation actions against landowners whose properties are along the pipeline route. Because the City of Sand Springs owns easements on the properties, the City is named as a defendant and has a right to respond to the suits, but is declining the opportunity.

Council unanimously approved specific use permits for two Medical Marijuana Processing Facilities at the Morrow Gill Business Park. The businesses are Rarextracts, LLC and Oklahoma Infusions Inc.

Council unanimously approved a resolution authorizing bidding for a new Sand Springs Municipal Lake Dam at the Canyons at Blackjack Ridge Gold Course. The existing dam was last upgraded 45 years ago, and the lake is crucial for irrigating the property. The resolution also authorizes the Mayor and City Manager to accept a bid, award a contract, and sign all relevant documents.

Council unanimously authorized City staff to apply for a grant from the FFY2023 Surface Transportation Program (STP) Urbanized Area funds. If the grant is awarded, the City plans to do a new asphalt overlay on 41st Street between 129th West Avenue and 69th West Avenue. The project has an estimated value of $3,192,099.00 and the City is requesting 71.7% or $2,288,920.00 from the STP.

Council unanimously approved a Maintenance Agreement with the Oklahoma Department of Transportation for the new stoplight at the intersection of Highway 97 and Huskey Avenue. 

Council unanimously approved an amendment to an existing agreement with Craig and Keithline, Inc. for design and planning work in the Sheffield Crossing development. The total contract amounts to $268,752.00.

Council unanimously approved several appointments to various boards and committees. Debbie Nobles and Steve Clem were appointed to five year terms on the Museum Trust Authority. Steve Lang, Kenny Tate, Ryan Walker, and Brent Kellogg were appointed to the Economic Development Authority. 

Council unanimously approved a partnership between the Fire Department and Sand Springs Public Schools. The SSFD will offer an eight-week internship program to Charles Page High School students that will count for course credit and provide valuable on-the-job training in the field.

Metal Forming Solutions Announces Company Transition

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Metal Forming Solutions Announces Company Transition

This new company, Metal Forming Solutions (MFS) is positioned to better represent the expansion and evolution of the organization and highlight who they are and how they intend to position themselves in the marketplace.

J&J Custom Bending was formed in 1986 and later incorporated in 1993 as Cust-O-Bend, Inc; a company which provided only Cold Bending services, with a niche servicing the tight radius and special metals bending applications. In 2000, with the acquisition of Hot Forming equipment, Cust-O-Bend, Inc expanded its product offerings to include Butt-Weld Fittings, Swage Nozzles and Reducers. Over the last 32 years, Cust-O-Bend has grown to become the leading and only manufacturer in the United States that provides Hot Forming and Cold Forming solutions for their customers.

The new company, Metal Forming Solutions (MFS), represents the successful outcome of a deep and focused reflection following the passing of Cust-O-Bend’s founder, Jerry W. Herrington, in October 2018.

Jeremy Herrington, the President of Metal Forming Solutions (MFS), made the announcement to customers on December 31st, 2018. MFS is focused on a mission to continuously provide innovative solutions in its industry, manufacture high-quality products and provide customer-centric service that exceeds the expectations of its clients.

32 years ago, Jeremy Herrington first began working in this industry with his father’s company. As his knowledge of their products and the industries they served grew and his personal leadership within his fathers’ company expanded, Jeremy became Vice President of Cust-O-Bend leading the company to become one of the most respected manufacturers of hot forming, cold forming and coiling solutions.

The name Metal Forming Solutions reflects our progression and intention, to design solutions/services beyond Cold Bending and represents Jeremy’s solution-oriented commitment to MFS’s customers and the markets it serves. Metal Forming Solutions will continue to serve customers across a wide range of industries and forming applications worldwide.

Jeremy Herrington states that “we have a unique niche in the marketplace as our Hot Forming, Cold Forming and Coiling capabilities give us the ability to serve customers with any of their forming requirements, kind of a ‘one-stop does it all’ from high-pressure and low-pressure fluid flow applications down to complex or simple structural forming requirements, and everything in between. I love this field for that reason, 99% invisible to us all is the shape and form of our world around us, everything has form.”

Metal Forming Solutions is fortunate to have talented, knowledgeable and highly experienced team members which allows them to service their customers like no others. Jeremy has always cited that service is his number one priority “if we are not consistently making our customers lives easier by doing business with us, then why do they need us?”.

Following substantial investments in operations, technology, its manufacturing facilities, product development, and its team, Metal Forming Solutions today, stands firm, tall and ready to dynamically move its business forward to achieve even more success in the years ahead.

Metal Forming Solutions represents the culmination of intentional effort to be a strong, unified and focused organization that better serves a wider-breadth of clientele.

With the organizational transformation efforts implemented, Metal Forming Solutions is now focused on providing innovative and exceptional custom-made solutions to the marketplace, building out its offering and expanding its portfolio.

About Metal Forming Solutions:

Metal Forming Solutions, is a family-owned and operated business which provides industry-leading Hot Forming, Cold Forming and Coiling solutions to clients worldwide; servicing many applications across various industries including, but not limited to, Power Generation, Boiler and HRSG Steam Energy, Electric Energy, Nuclear Energy, Coal-Generation, Bio-Mass and Renewable Energy, Heaters, Furnaces, Economizers and Shell & Tube, Chemical, Petro-Chemical and Ethanol Refining Fluid and Gas Circulatory, Transmission and Transportation; Pressure Vessel & Gas Distribution, Marine Vessels (PED) Automotive, Aero-Space, Commercial and Industrial HVAC, Commercial and Construction Structural and so much more.

Gilcrease Expressway project financing partnership authorized

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Highlights of the Oklahoma Transportation Commission’s Monday, Jan. 6, meeting include commission approval of several Oklahoma Department of Transportation school zone safety projects and an item related to the agency’s partnership with the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority on the Gilcrease Expressway project in Tulsa. Commissioners also heard updates on federal transportation funding and the state’s first transit plan.

Commissioners voted to approve use of federal funds for several school zone safety projects, including installation of signs with solar-powered warning beacons near schools on SH-4 in Mustang and on US-77 and SH-19 in Pauls Valley. Other school zone signage locations approved include SH-48 in Bearden, SH-270 in McLoud, US-77 in Paoli and SH-66 in Stroud.

The commission voted to authorize Secretary of Transportation Tim Gatz to negotiate an agreement with the U.S. Department of Transportation and the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority to help finance the Gilcrease Expressway project in Tulsa using a loan through the Transportation Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act program. With ODOT’s assistance, OTA is seeking a TIFIA loan to provide the most favorable payment and interest terms to help the authority fund construction of the five-mile segment of the new highway between I-44 and US-412, which will be paid off with toll revenues. Other project partners include the City of Tulsa, Tulsa County, Indian Nations Council of Governments and the Federal Highway Administration. Gatz also leads OTA as its executive director. For more information about the project, including cost and schedule, visit the OTA’s project webpage at www.drivingforwardok.com.

“This segment of the Gilcrease Expressway has been challenging to fund and this arrangement is a great example of local, state and federal government entities working together to leverage their resources to bring a major project forward that would have never happened otherwise,” Gatz said. 

Gatz updated commissioners on the recently approved federal appropriations bill that authorizes funding for Federal Fiscal Year 2020. In December, Congress and the president agreed on a long-term appropriations measure that will provide certainty in federal transportation funding for the remainder of FY 2020, allowing ODOT to continue advertising projects for bid and awarding contracts with federal funds through the fiscal year.

Finally, Gatz reported to commissioners on stakeholder meetings taking place statewide as part of development of the Oklahoma Public Transit Policy Plan. The department and the Oklahoma Transit Association are hosting regional meetings in several cities to get local input on needs from transit providers and users to help shape the state’s transit program. Meetings in McAlester and Lawton occurred in December and upcoming meetings are planned for Pryor, Durant, Oklahoma City, Woodward and Ponca City. Meeting details and more information about the plan can be found at www.oktransitplan.org. 

The department also welcomed an award from the American Concrete Pavement Association for a pavement rehabilitation project on I-35 and I-40 in Oklahoma County that recently earned a National Gold Award for excellence in design and construction. The $10.5 million project designed by ODOT and built by Duit Construction, of Edmond, addressed sections of I-35 between Edmond and northeast Oklahoma City and I-40 on the city’s west side.

As is customary, no new highway projects were advertised for bid in December, so no construction contracts were awarded this month. Projects advertised for bid in January can be viewed at www.odot.org/contracts.

The nine-member Oklahoma Transportation Commission, appointed by the governor and legislative leadership to oversee the state’s transportation development, awards monthly contracts for road and bridge construction. The commission’s next meeting is scheduled for 11 a.m. Monday, Feb. 3. Contracts, bid information, the commission’s monthly agenda and project details can be viewed at www.odot.org.

Sand Springs to begin Main Street expansion project with new Highway 412 on-ramp

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Sand Springs, OK - Road construction work will begin along south portions of Main Street as early as next week. ODOT’s $7.7M project is part of a cost share program, with 20% of the funding provided by the City of Sand Springs.

Main Street will be widened from 1st Street, southward to Morrow Road. Creation of the Lincoln On-Ramp Connector will provide traffic connection to eastbound HWY 412. Main Street, south of Morrow Road, will tie into HWY 97 from the east. A traffic signal light will be added to the new intersection of HWY 97 & Main Street.

The project includes $5.5M for roadway improvements, with $1.8 dedicated to storm water/sewer drainage. Remaining funds will be used for water line and sewer line extensions. Completion of the ODOT-managed project is estimated at 18 months.

“Sand Springs is growing, and we are committed to keeping pace with rising traffic needs in our community,” stated Mayor Jim Spoon. “We are very appreciative of the benefits the City will receive through participation in ODOT’s cost share program.”

“The Main Street Improvement project will upgrade the efficient flow of traffic during peak travel times,” stated City Manager Elizabeth Gray. “The traffic loop and additional traffic signal will also provide an alternative route for school buses and safety personnel.”

For more information about the City of Sand Springs, please visit www.sandspringsok.org and follow the City’s social media on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates.

Sand Springs accepting bids for new visitor center at Keystone Ancient Forest

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Sand Springs, OK - The City of Sand Springs announces its plans to publicly bid construction documents for a planned 2,000-square foot visitor center at Keystone Ancient Forest nature preserve, just west of Sand Springs. The City-owned project is the result of public bond support from the Citizens of Sand Springs and major philanthropic support from the Sharna and Irvin Frank Family Foundation.

The 2-level structure is the result of several years of planning, fundraising, master planning and (most recently) architectural design work by Studio45 Architects of Tulsa. Upon completion, the new design will feature a glassed in multi-function observation floor and modern restroom facilities. Below the main observation floor and restrooms, space will be allocated for park maintenance, storage and mechanical building systems. The facility will serve as the formal gateway for visitors to hike and enjoy nearly ten miles of pedestrian hiking at the forest.

The City will advertise for public bids early this month. Interested bidders can contact Grant Gerondale, Community Development Director at (918) 246-2504 for plan set details.

Sealed bids will be received in the temporary office of the City Clerk at 217 N. McKinley Ave until 9:45 a.m. on Tuesday, February 4, 2020. Sealed bids will then be opened at the Case Community Center at 10:15 a.m.

The Keystone Ancient Forest opened for public visitation in October of 2007 and has become one of Oklahoma’s premier hiking destinations. Thousands of hikers enjoy year-round trail hikes amidst the oldest publicly accessible, protected, Crosstimbers forest remnant in the United States.

For more information about the City of Sand Springs, please visit www.sandspringsok.org and follow the City’s social media on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates.

Chick-fil-A confirms new Sand Springs location

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The City of Sand Springs has been developing new land and beautifying the city to try and attract new businesses in recent years. Pictured here is the entrance to the new Sheffield Crossing development, where the City hopes to attract a large box store.

The City of Sand Springs announced Wednesday the upcoming arrival of national restaurant retailer Chick-fil-A to Sheffield Crossing at Sand Springs. The announcement comes immediately following the successful closing at the city-owned site. Following construction, which should commence in early 2020, Chick-fil-A says the new restaurant will be open late 2020

“While we are still early in the process, Chick-fil-A is happy to share that we have chosen our first location in the Sand Springs area,” reads the short statement. “We look forward to working through the approval process with the city and are excited by the prospect of joining this vibrant community. We hope to have the opportunity to serve new guests delicious food in an environment of genuine hospitality.”

Chick-fil-A is a quick service restaurant known for its original chicken sandwich and signature hospitality. Part of the way they achieve this hospitality is through local ownership of its restaurants. The Sand Springs Operator will not only work in the community, but also live in the area as well. Chick-fil-A Operators look for opportunities to creatively serve and have a positive impact on their local communities.

This announcement is the first of what the City hopes will be many more updates as work continues at the Sheffield Crossing at Sand Springs site. With more than 80,000 vehicles passing by daily and a trade area of 100,000 customers, this retail site is one of the best in the N.W. Tulsa metro region. Land adjacent to the Chick-fil-A site is also ready for retail development.

Success at the Sheffield Crossing at Sand Springs development area has been based on several key partnerships, which helped build support and gain momentum. Leaders at OmniTRAX (previous owners of the industrial site) worked collaboratively with the City of Sand Springs to plan for future development. Sand Springs voters passed a 2017 General Obligation Bond measure securing revenue to be used on economic development projects within the community. Without the support of leadership from our City Council, OmniTRAX and from Sand Springs voters, the site would likely remain in its former state.

“We wish to express our deep appreciation to the voters of Sand Springs, OmniTRAX, ODOT, and the many other partners we’ve worked with along the way to help make this announcement possible,” said James O. Spoon, Mayor of Sand Springs. “Our council and staff have worked diligently for many years to share exciting news such as this, and we look forward to providing more good news from Sheffield Crossing at Sand Springs in the future.”

Additionally, the City would like to acknowledge the help of Orion Realty Advisors, Tri-Star Construction, and O.D.O.T. Special recognition should be given to Tri-Star Construction, who (as part of a $1.7M construction contract) constructed an entry road, highway turn lane, traffic signals and all public utilities necessary to serve the development and the Chick-fil-A pad site.

In the months ahead City staff will be examining preliminary layout options for the site including infrastructure, utilities, grading and drainage. Much work will be happening at the site in 2020 to coordinate additional improvements, planned by O.D.O.T. in the years ahead along the Highway 97 corridor.

For more information about the City of Sand Springs, please visit www.sandspringsok.org and follow the City’s social media on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates. Inquiries regarding Sheffield Crossing at Sand Springs may contact City Manager Elizabeth Gray at 918-246-2502 or eagray@sandsprings ok.org.

The Atlanta-based company currently operates 47 locations in Oklahoma, including nine in the Tulsa Metropolitan area. They have 2,500 restaurants throughout the United States and Canada.

Sand Springs has been pushing hard for economic growth in recent years, developing two City-owned properties in the Highway 412 corridor. The River West Shopping Center has attracted a Holiday Inn Express, Colton’s Steak House, El Maguey Mexican Restaurant, Warren Clinic, ALDI, Starbucks, CVS, and IHOP.

The City has plans for numerous infrastructure and aesthetic improvements throughout the City. A main-street extension is currently in the works that will connect Main Street to Highway 97 right before the Arkansas River bridge, and will add a frontage road connecting Main Street to the Highway 412 on-ramp at Lincoln Avenue. The City is also negotiating with OmniTRAX to purchase a 7-to-10-acre tract for a proposed roadway over the Arkansas River/Highway 97 levee that separates Case Community Park from the Sheffield Crossing development.

At Monday night’s regular City Council meeting, Council approved an $84,000 investment in tree-planting and landscaping along the highway corridors to improve the aesthetic appeal of the City in the eyes of potential investors and developers. A wall is currently being constructed around the City’s water treatment plant at the corner of Highway 97 and Morrow Road, which will also feature decorative landscaping to shield the public’s view of the facilities.

New development officially renamed "Sheffield Crossing at Sand Springs"

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The Sand Springs City Council unanimously approved the name “Sheffield Crossing at Sand Springs” for the new commercial development being planned on the site of the former Sheffield Steel Mill. They also changed the Highway 97 entry street name from “Huskey Boulevard” to “Huskey Avenue.”

The development was originally planned under the name “Sheffield Crossing,” and was going to be a private development owned by OmniTRAX. OmniTRAX dropped development plans and sold 18 acres to the City of Sand Springs in 2017, but retained the name “Sheffield Crossing, LLC,” leading Sand Springs to adopt the name Sheffield Plaza in their October meeting. For branding purposes, because the name Sheffield Crossing has been used for the past few years, they decided to change the name again to “Sheffield Crossing at Sand Springs,” with OmniTRAX’s permission, to piggyback on the established monicker.

The Highway 97 entrance to the development was recently named “Huskey Boulevard” in honor of former Assistant Police Chief Jesse Huskey, who is the only Sand Springs Police Officer to die in the line of duty. Because the future of the development is unclear, and the ultimate shape and landscaping of the road has yet to be determined, they decided to avoid the term “Boulevard” which typically indicates “a wide street lined with trees.”

In other news:

Census Specialist Joshua Etheridge gave a presentation regarding the U.S. 2020 Census. There will be four ways for individuals to respond to the census, including paper forms, internet, over the phone, or in-person on April 1, 2020. Etheridge assures the public that the online database is far safer than even the best online banking apps. He also stressed the importance of making sure every single resident is registered, even the homeless, due to the impact it has on federal allocations. The Census Bureau will be hiring in January at an average minimum wage of around $15.00/hour. In addition to canvasing, there are also jobs that can be done from home. According to Etheridge, veterans receive priority in the hiring process.

Stormwater Technician Jon Odle gave a presentation on washing your car, and the importance of not allowing runoff including soaps to enter the stormwater system. According to Odle, detergents are damaging to local water-based environments such as streams, rivers, and lakes. Car Wash businesses send their runoff to the wastewater system, not into the environment. Washing your car over gravel or grass, instead of in your driveway, uses the soil as filter, lessening the impact of detergents on waterways.

Council unanimously approved the use of $80,260.93 for furnishing City Hall, which is currently undergoing an extensive remodel. The money comes from a recent auction of surplus City property.

Council unanimously approved an Emergency Management Performance Agreement between the City of Sand Springs and the Oklahoma Office of Emergency Management.

Council unanimously approved a mid-year benefit change to the City employee health-plan, adding a high-deductible option.

Council unanimously approved a resolution affirming dilapidation public nuisance administrative hearing findings against properties at 1106 North Garfield Avenue, 517 North Washington Avenue, 1018 and 1018 1/2 North Roosevelt Avenue, and 719 North Franklin Avenue.

Council unanimously approved a supplemental appropriation of $102,000 from the Emergency Reserves fund for repairs at Case Community Park following the spring flooding.

Council unanimously approved a $35,000 expenditure for repairing the infield playing surfaces of the Will Ramsey Softball Complex in Case Park.

Council unanimously approved a $45,281.40 expenditure for replacing playground surfacing throughout Case Park.

Council unanimously approved a resolution authorizing the City Manager to sign the lowest and best estimate for the purchase of an arched trellis for Zackery Park, not to exceed $30,000. Zackery Park is a planned micro-park that will be located in the RiverWest Shopping Center.

Council unanimously awarded an $84,000 bid to Precision Lawn Care for a tree planting and maintenance project along the city’s highway corridors. The City hopes to improve the aesthetic appeal of the community as viewed from the highway in order to impress and attract potential developers. Precision will care for the trees for a six month period, then the City will take over.