DTP Annual Meeting & Announcement of Safer Together Coalition
Downtown Tulsa Partnership Unveils “Safer Together” Initiative, Announces Planned Pilot Expansion of Safety Team, and Highlights Year of Major Achievements
TULSA, OK (September 11, 2025) – Downtown Tulsa Partnership (DTP) today announced a bold next step in its mission to create a welcoming, vibrant, and economically resilient Downtown: the official launch of Safer Together, a multi-faceted communications and action initiative to align public safety priorities and resources in Downtown Tulsa.
Safer Together presents a comprehensive framework to address community safety through a balance of visible presence, improved coordination among partners, advocacy for resource allocation, and enforcement when necessary. This effort is launched in alignment with Downtown Tulsa Partnership, the City of Tulsa, Tulsa Regional Chamber, and Housing Solutions.
Safer Together outlines five priorities for action to improve safety conditions and perceptions:
1. Increase the presence, visibility, and response of safety personnel
2. Improve coordination between public and private safety groups
3. Update and inform stakeholders with data-driven information and resources
4. Advocate for policy and funding appropriations that increase rehousing and mental health resources
5. Achieve a clean and active public environment
Combined, these priorities and their subsequent actions establish a commitment to foster a Downtown where all people feel safe, welcome, and supported whether they live, visit, or do business here.
Beginning today, DowntownTulsa.com/SaferTogether will serve as a central hub for resources providing residents, businesses, and visitors with information when they need it most. The site features resource guides, links for businesses to register security cameras with RTIC. Additional initiatives to be rolled out over the weeks ahead include shareable graphics and messages for employers and employees, a business communications channel to connect separate security efforts, and shared data about incidents of and responses.
Additionally, DTP shared proposed plans to revamp and expand a field safety team focused on service to meet the evolving needs and challenges affecting quality of life and public safety in Downtown. A three-month pilot would grow and elevate DTP’s safety team from 6 team members currently to 18, including dispatching operations from 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM. DTP is actively fundraising to initiate the three-month pilot and to sustain the program long-term.
“Safer Together and the pilot expansion of safety resource officers demonstrate what we can accomplish when the public and private sectors work together,” Kurtz said. “With continued collaboration and financial support, we can make these programs permanent and ensure Downtown Tulsa is a safe and welcoming place for all to visit, live, and conduct business.”
DTP also shared organizational accomplishments from the last year featured in its FY24-25 Annual Report (available at DowntownTulsa.com/AnnualReport) and provided updates on projects and initiatives:
Several major urban development and capital public realm projects are underway to enhance Downtown’s vibrancy Project renderings are available here. (LINK TO DROP BOX):
Brush Arbor Grove Dog Park - Formerly Legacy Park, the site will be transformed into a dedicated urban dog park designed for Downtown’s growing residential community. Groundbreaking is scheduled for Fall 2025, with completion in May 2026.
Chapman Green - A $1.3 million revitalization project will modernize this 20-year-old park at 6th and Boston with new lighting, landscaping, an amphitheater upgrade, pet relief area, and more. A public open house will be held on October 2nd at TCC’s Center for Creativity at 5:30 PM for members of the public to see updated designs and site programs.
Center of the Universe - DTP has reached design milestones to advance rehabilitation of this iconic destination. The reimagined and renovated public space and plaza is anticipated to be completed in Fall 2026.
Cathedral District Pre-Development Plan - On the south edge of Downtown, DTP is coordinating with property owners to unlock housing and mixed-use opportunities where surface parking dominates today. The plan, set for completion in Spring 2026, will provide a blueprint for infill, public-private partnerships, and a stronger residential core.
With public and private support, DTP has initiated several public art projects in the last year:
ArtWraps - In Spring 2025, DTP launched the ArtWraps program in the Deco District, replacing outdated trash cans with 20 new enclosed units featuring designs from local artists. DTP plans to expand the program annually with 20 new installations each year to replace open-top receptacles. An additional phase will wrap utility boxes in public art.
W 5th Street Alley Activation - Artist selection is underway to enhance area and alley safety with artistic lighting and architectural enhancements. The project is anticipated to be complete in Spring 2026.
Engagement and events build community connections
Community Programming: Signature activations including the Midweek Market (now SNAP-accepting), Namastreet Yoga, Intern Appreciation Day, Garage Concert Series, and Downtown Days of Wonder brought new energy and engagement to Downtown public spaces.
Ribbon Cutting Events: DTP Has supported nine new businesses with ribbon cutting events, welcoming to the Downtown community and publicizing their opening.
Public Safety Forums: Quarterly forums hosted with Tulsa Police and Fire Departments at Central Library provided business owners, residents, and workers with critical safety updates and dialogue.
On the heels of last year’s inaugural event that welcomed 2,300 visitors to Chapman Green, DTP will host the second annual 918 Day Festival, a free community celebration of Tulsa’s culture and diversity, on Thursday, September 18, from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Chapman Green. This year’s festival will feature more than 80 local food and artisan vendors and live music and cultural performances on two stages. More information can be found at DowntownTulsa.com/918Day.
DTP’s membership program provides partners with new opportunities to engage with Downtown businesses and stakeholders while increasing the organization’s capacity to enhance Downtown programs, events and experiences, including expanded Clean & Safe programs and business support services. For more information on supporting Downtown Tulsa Partnership, visit DowntownTulsa.com/Membership.