2024: A Year of Progress, Vision and Commitment

As we step into 2025, we reflect on a remarkable 2024—a year defined by meaningful progress, impactful collaborations and significant achievements that have brought us closer to a brighter future for all.

The year marked pivotal moments in the implementation of the Kirkpatrick Heights-Greenwood Master Plan and the foundational steps to launch a Community Development Corporation (CDC). While the journey is just beginning, the strides we’ve taken are laying the groundwork for lasting impact.

Building a Strong Governance Framework

The year began with bold steps toward establishing a structure for community-led development. Key milestones included:

• January – April: The creation of a nine-member Advisory Committee from a pool of 41 applicants, ensuring voices from the community guide the formation of the CDC.
• May – June: The first Advisory Committee meeting and a commitment of $160,000 from PartnerTulsa to support the CDC’s establishment. 
• July: Securing $2 million in funding from the City of Tulsa for the CDC’s launch and learning from national best practices through a visit to Omaha, Nebraska.
• September: PartnerTulsa announced that the Tulsa Development Authority (TDA) was awarded a $990,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Innovative Finance and Asset Concession Grant Program (IFACGP). This funding marked a significant milestone in our shared mission to secure the resources needed to bring the community-led vision of the Kirkpatrick Heights-Greenwood Master Plan to life.
• October: The establishment of the Greenwood Legacy Corporation was announced, representing a pivotal step in managing future development within the Kirkpatrick Heights-Greenwood Plan area. This new entity, formed as a CDC with the guidance of the Advisory Committee, comprises North Tulsa residents and community stakeholders. The founding board members are Dr. Lana Turner- Addison, Eugene Harris, Scott Moore, Joshua Roby, and Daquet Wilson. Together, they will drive the implementation of the Master Plan, ensuring that the community’s voice remains at the center of its progress.

Celebrating Community-Driven Projects Through the Community Impact Initiatives
In collaboration with George Kaiser Family Foundation and local organizations, 2024 was also a year of tangible neighborhood achievements:

• North Tulsa – E. Apache Street: The North Tulsa Economic Development Initiative (NTEDi) and Dr. Lana Turner-Addison celebrated the “topping out” of their placemaking project at the famous Stutts Barbecue. The site will be enhanced with arts and historical elements in the coming months, transforming it into a vibrant destination for education, business, and community pride. It will also serve as an engaging attraction for selfies and a tribute to the history and businesses along Apache Street.
• Kendall-Whittier: This summer, Growing Together hosted a summer workshop series designed to build connections and foster creativity with families and individuals in the Kendall-Whittier community. Held in an underutilized park, each unique creation was later showcased in Kendall-Whittier Square, sparking the vision for a new mural in Archer Park. With the collaboration of local artist Yovany Avendano (VNICE) today a vibrant mural stands as a tribute to Kendall-Whittier’s unity, diversity and culture. 
• Phoenix District: The Phoenix District also unveiled “Blazing Wings of Dreams” a 9-foot-tall interactive sculpture located at the intersection of Osage Prairie Trail and E. 36th North. Designed by local artist Trueson Daughtery, this piece was developed with public input, symbolizing strength and perseverance. 
• Chamberlain Neighbors – This year, we celebrated the installation of newly rebuilt neighborhood signs in North Tulsa’s Chamberlain Neighborhood. With the assistance of the team from the Tulsa Parks and Recreation Department – Jane Malone Center, this project reflects a broader effort to enhance the neighborhood’s identity and build on its rich history. We also proudly honored community advocate Jane Malone for her visionary leadership and lasting impact on the neighborhood and across North Tulsa with the premiere of a short film featuring stories from residents and community leaders, as well as the unveiling of a custom portrait to commemorate her remarkable contributions. 

Momentum for the Future

2024 was not just about accomplishments; it was about laying a foundation for what’s to come. Our collective vision is becoming a reality, driven by a shared commitment to equity, sustainability and opportunity.

This is only the beginning. Together, we will continue building momentum this year and beyond, creating a legacy of empowerment and transformation for generations to come.

Jonathan Butler
Senior Vice President of Community Development | Partner Tulsa