The Tulsa World District, centered around 21st rue and Garnett Road, deploys new initiatives aimed at revitalizing one of the most diverse districts in the city.
Under a new leadership, the district focuses on business growth, security and affordable housing to build a stronger community.
New leadership, new vision
Executive director Alejandro Garcia directs the effort, launching a commercial and real estate association to link local entrepreneurs and owners directly with city leaders.
Public meetings have already started, bringing the owners of companies face to face with the chief of the Tulsa police, Dennis Larsen, and the mayor Monroe Nichols.
Approach security and walking problems
One of the main priorities is to improve safety and work in the district. Garcia said that residents and business owners express concerns about inadequate lighting, large parking lots and the lack of spaces suitable for pedestrians.
“Just getting together to say … okay, what can we do to improve walking? Because it is not precisely the region – it could be more accessible on foot,” said Garcia. “Or maybe even create a guard where the police can monitor certain periods of the day.”
Affordable accommodation on the horizon
In addition to the revitalization of businesses, the district works with city leaders on plans to add more affordable housing. The objective is to meet growing demand while more and more entrepreneurs settle in East Tulsa.
“So yes, we are confronted with this … that people need to live here near companies,” said Garcia. The housing project should be completed by 2027 or 2028.
Training and resources for entrepreneurs
The World District also launches specialized training programs to help business owners succeed. The offers include support with accounting, marketing and strategic planning to stimulate long -term growth.
A look before: embellishment and business incubation
Construction is underway on a new commercial incubator designed to help local entrepreneurs launch and develop their businesses. Although an opening date has not been announced, the leaders say that the incubator will serve as a key part of the economic revitalization of the district.
The organization also works on embellishment projects – including new murals and new trails – to bring energy and fresh pride to the neighborhood.
Celebrate culture at the American Asian night market
The Tulsa World District hosts the Asian American night market Friday May 16 – A free event for families to enjoy food, performance and cultural demonstrations.
The event will offer cuisine from all over Asia, as well as artists from countries like India, China, Japan and Korea. The protruding facts include Kendo's demonstrations, the presentation of Japanese martial art and the traditional dance of the Hmong community.
The market takes place at 1801 S. Garnett Road Since 5 a.m. to 9 p.m.
