As another year draws to a close it is important to look back at what we have accomplished to better plan our goals for the new year. While we reflected the one thing that stuck with us was how much commitment Tulsa is showing to a renewed sense of community. A deep desire to be outdoors and a measurable value in what we have. Tulsa, again you leave us happy and speechless. Thank you.
From:
Colin Tawney
TUWC Government Affairs Coordinator
According to our sources at INCOG, Simon has requested another continuance of their zoning hearing before the TMAPC to August 19, 2015.
Based on lack of public support as well as lack of support from the City Council, we cannot see how Simon would still be preparing a site plan for this property.
However, the recent announcement by the City of Jenks that Simon had signed a contract on land south of the Creek Turnpike, was pre-empted by a cancelled press conference.
What does all this mean, and should we still be concerned? Anyone involved with this project has said Simon has been very silent since the forums were held in mid-March. The series of delays and lack of communication on this matter has puzzled government leaders as well as development insiders.
Based on what has happened in other markets where there have been multiple developers vying for an outlet mall in a market which will only support one, this is really not terribly surprising. In other markets where Simon was late to the game, they have used similar tactics to end up either chasing out competition or partnering with another developer. Simon is the undisputed king of outlet retail management companies, they also rule the traditional mall market. With that sort of presence comes the clout to woo all of the major retailers required to develop an outlet mall.
Certainly, we cannot take our eyes off Simon, but with the high cost of infrastructure improvements as well as numerous challenges the Turkey Mountain site presents, there really does not seem to be any reason for Simon to attempt to develop there.
We are continuing to monitor the situation and follow up with city officials as well as contacts we have within the development community. We will have someone attend the June 17 TMAPC meeting to report back on the continuance or if there are any other developments.
With the stunning news that Simon Properties has abandoned the site on Turkey Mountain comes the sobering reality that there is now a 60 acre parcel of land with existing commercial zoning sitting wide open.
This is but round one. It was a hard fought battle, and people have taken notice how important Turkey Mountain is to the citizens of Tulsa. With that recognition, it is now time to step up fund-raising efforts to secure and protect the land from the threat of commercial development for future generations.
Large donations should be directed to Tulsa Urban Wilderness Coalition through its account at Tulsa Community Foundation: https://tulsacf.org
Direct donations to TUWC can be made at
TUWC also has a Go Fund Me campaign for any donation amount at: http://www.gofundme.com/tuwc2015
Please join the TUWC today in the movement to purchase this vital piece of urban wilderness.
