"There's a lot of opportunity there," said the city's Chief Economic Development Officer, Clay Bird.
The area near 71st and Riverside is one of three areas where the city is hoping to inspire new development. Bird says 71st and Riverside draws a great deal of traffic. An overhaul could mean new businesses, like hotels and restaurants, on the north side of that corner. That would mean replacing the current sand volleyball courts with a new, upgraded facility.
While the plan is still very tentative, the city would like to see a private group build a 10-court volleyball facility with indoor and outdoor possibilities that would still allow public use. It would sit just south of where the sand courts are now. The city hopes it will bring regional and national tournaments to Tulsa.
A resident of the area said he thinks these changes would benefit Tulsa's economy.
"I think it's a good idea," said Mark Crouch. "I know that TU has a good volleyball program, and I don't see why not."
The city has already presented its conceptual plan to the Parks Board, which Bird said seemed very positive.
The next step is asking for public feedback and making a presentation to the Tulsa Public Facilities Authority, which owns the property. Construction could feasibly begin in three to six months.
