Owasso has submitted projects they would like to use for their excess Vision 2025 funds to complete. In October, Tulsa County commissioners declared a $45.5 million surplus, that were in excess of the construction costs and financing fees for Vision 2025 projects. The 0.6 percent Vision 2025 sales tax started in 2004 and will expire in 2016.
Owasso’s part of the excess funds is just short of $7 million dollars.
The city must spend the funds according to the initiatives approved by voters in 2003 which were:
- Proposition 2 is for capital improvements to promote economic development
- Proposition 3 is for education, health care or event facilities to promote economic development
- Proposition 4 targets capital improvements for community enrichment.
Owasso money allotted from each are:
- $460,000 (Prop 2)
- $2,585,000 (Prop 3)
- $4,480,000 (Prop 4)
Owasso has designated funds to be spent as follows:
Proposition 2 funds have been designated for intersection improvements and upgrades at 19th Street and Garnett Road which will accommodate the development of a new Academy Sports & Outdoors, which will open later in 2015.
Proposition 3 upgrades include parking lots, lighting and spectator area improvements at the Owasso Sports Complex to enhance the community’s viability as a host for youth tournaments.
Proposition 4 covers improvements to 76th Street North and Main Streets intersection. It will also include the development of a downtown festival market place. Also included is a Ranch Creek Trail extending from 76th Street North near Mingo Road and stretching to McCarty Park, along with a Heart Healthy 5k Trail at the Owasso Sports Complex that could be used for community-sponsored 5ks.
Also included in Proposition 4 is the replacement of the shelter at Elm Creek Park. a large splash pad at the south end of the Owasso Sports Complex, improvements at the Rayola Park splash pad, a much anticipated dog park and skate park lighting.
