Riverside Drive, Gathering Place To Open Spring Or Summer 2018

Mother Nature has delayed the opening of Tulsa’s Gathering Place and Riverside Drive.

In a news release, A Gathering Place for Tulsa and the city say the coordinated opening will be in late spring/summer of 2018.

Originally both were expected to open in late 2017.

6/24/2015 Related Story: Gathering Place Construction To Close Riverside Drive For Two Years

According to Project Manager Jeff Stava, Oklahoma weather was a big factor.

“The record rains of 2016 and this year have negatively impacted both the park and city’s construction schedule. Plus, you add in the unseasonably warm winters, which have impacted the planting of the park’s almost 6,000 trees, and the result is a new opening timeline,” he said.

City officials said they are pleased with the progress, but said public safety is the main consideration.

“Public safety, efficiency and quality are top priorities,” said Director of Engineering Services Paul Zachary. “Leaving Riverside Drive fully closed protects the public from large construction equipment, eliminates the inconveniences of temporary lane closures and ensures our contractors can maintain their quality of work.”

The news release also says the Chapman Foundations Adventure Park will open January 2018.

Special Coverage: A Gathering Place for Tulsa