Proposed Turkey Mountain Amusement Park Draws Opposition At Tulsa Town Hall

Could a new amusement park be built on Turkey Mountain? A developer thinks the area is prime real estate, but worried Tulsans packed a town hall meeting Monday night to express their opposition to the idea.

02/20/2012 Related Story: Developer Eyes Tulsa's Turkey Mountain For Possible Amusement Park

The city owns parts of Turkey Mountain. River Parks owns half. Developers want to take advantage of Turkey Mountain's waterfront property, and its prime location to build "Tulsa Harbor."

The plans include "Tornado Alley Amusement Park," Thunder Bay Water Park, and the Coliseum of Speed--a race car museum. A hotel, guest cottages, a trolley station and shops are also featured.

A nice thought some say. But not on our mountain.

"It's very scary for us because knowing that if we lost Turkey Mountain, it would rip the heartbeat out of biking and hiking community in the Tulsa," said Emily Culpepper, amusement park opponent.

City Councilor Jeannie Cue, who represents the district which includes Turkey Mountain, addressed the proposed park and what the developer discussed with her.

"When he showed me what he wanted, I didn't feel like that is the right place for it," Cue said.

Cue says the park would be better suited at the River West Festival Park or south of PSO's building.

Many say the idea came out of nowhere. They questioned if there was an agreement being made behind the scenes.

"There is no agreement. I've talked with the Mayor. I've talked with city planners. At this time, we do not feel like this is a good fit for our area," Cue told residents.

River Parks Executive Director Matt Meyer said they aren't against commercial development. But any development would be made above board with input from the community.

Councilor Cue and others say they'll fight to keep turkey mountain's urban wilderness as is.

News On 6 called the real estate agent working with the developer for comment. Our calls and e-mails were not returned.