Guiding Principles

Capturing these hopes, dreams and aspirations for Tulsa’s future is essential as we move forward in making a future vision a reality. The Citizens’ Team, a diverse group of volunteers developed the following guiding principles. These principles serve as the foundation for future planning efforts, and will ensure that the comprehensive plan remains consistent with the vision.

Community and Housing Tulsans want a city where newcomers can move, buy a home and join the community. Future development should protect historic buildings, neighborhoods and resources while enhancing urban areas and creating new mixed-use centers. Tulsa residents envision a city with pockets of density to provide for a more livable, pedestrian-friendly and cost-efficient community. Tulsa should permit opportunities for a full range of housing types to fit every income, household and preference.

Transportation A variety of transportation options should serve the city, so that all Tulsans can go where we need to go by driving if we want, but also by walking, biking or using public transit. Transit should be designed as a consumer good, to attract people without a vehicle, as well as people who do, with its quality and benefits. Employment areas also should provide nearby access to services such as child care, groceries and restaurants.

Economy Downtown Tulsa should act as a thriving economic engine and cultural center for the entire region. Entrepreneurs, small businesses and large employers should find Tulsa an easy place to do business. Adequate space for expanding businesses into downtown, along main streets, or in employment centers should be easy to find. The city should invest in the critical infrastructure necessary to develop a robust and diversified economy. The city should have the ability to monitor trends, spot key opportunities and meet challenges strategically.

Equity and Opportunity Tulsans want a cohesive city where we have the ability to create a safe, healthy lives for ourselves and our families. Tulsans want civic, business and government institutions to ensure that everyone has equal opportunity and access to housing, employment, transportation, education and health care, regardless of background, ethnicity, or neighborhood. Schools should be safe, easy to walk to, and part of a world-class education system.

Environment Tulsans expect our city to become a leader in sustainability and efficiency. Residents expect easy access to parks and natural areas. City parks should provide open space, available to each neighborhood, with access to fields, natural areas and greenways for outdoor relaxation and recreation. New buildings should meet high standards for energy and water efficiency while delivering high quality spaces and architectural design.

Planning Process Tulsans expect city planning and decision-making to be an inclusive and transparent process. Once adopted, city-wide and neighborhood plans should be funded, implemented and monitored for performance. Development and zoning policies should be easily understood, workable and result in predicable development. Residents should have a voice in solving their community’s problems today and be a part of planning for tomorrow.

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