Sidewalks of Shame: Why Tulsa's Walkability Crisis Hurts.

By Franklin Everett Shaw

March 19, 2026

Imagine stepping outside your Tulsa home and actually enjoying the walk to the grocery store. No dodging cracked sidewalks, no fearing for your safety crossing busy intersections, just a pleasant, invigorating stroll. This isn’t some utopian fantasy; it’s an achievable goal, and it starts with you.

Tulsa, Oklahoma, while possessing pockets of pedestrian-friendly charm, often falls short in providing a truly walkable environment for its residents. This isn’t just about convenience; it’s about public health, community connection, and even economic prosperity. Let’s dive into how you, a Tulsa resident, can become an advocate for change and help transform our city, one sidewalk at a time.

First, understand the power of your voice. Local government responds to constituent concerns. Don’t assume someone else will speak up; your individual experience matters.

Start by documenting the problems. Take photos of broken sidewalks, missing crosswalks, and dangerous intersections in your neighborhood. Be specific. Note the exact location (address or intersection) and the nature of the problem.

Next, contact your City Councilor. You can find their contact information on the City of Tulsa website. Email is often the most effective way to reach them. Be polite but firm in your communication. Clearly state the problem and suggest a solution. For example, “The sidewalk at 123 Main Street is severely cracked and poses a tripping hazard. I request that the city prioritize its repair.”

Don’t stop at just one email. Follow up. Attend City Council meetings and voice your concerns during the public comment period. This demonstrates that you are serious about the issue.

Consider forming a neighborhood advocacy group. Strength in numbers can be incredibly effective. Organize your neighbors and collectively address walkability issues in your area.

One common pitfall is assuming the city already knows about the problem. They might not. Reporting issues through official channels is crucial. Use the “Tulsa 311” system to report sidewalk damage, overgrown vegetation blocking sidewalks, or other pedestrian hazards.

Another challenge is navigating the city’s bureaucracy. Be persistent. Don’t be discouraged if your initial request is denied or delayed. Keep following up and exploring alternative solutions.

Let’s talk about specific areas in Tulsa that could benefit from improved walkability. The Kendall Whittier district, while vibrant, suffers from inconsistent sidewalk maintenance and pedestrian crossings. Brookside, known for its shops and restaurants, could be even more appealing with wider, more accessible sidewalks. Even areas near the University of Tulsa could benefit from improved pedestrian infrastructure to encourage students and faculty to walk more.

Think about the health benefits. Regular walking reduces the risk of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer. A walkable Tulsa is a healthier Tulsa.

Consider the economic impact. Walkable neighborhoods tend to have higher property values. They also attract businesses and create a more vibrant local economy.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to advocating for a new crosswalk:

1. Identify a dangerous intersection. Observe pedestrian traffic and note any near misses.
2. Gather data. Count the number of pedestrians crossing the intersection during peak hours.
3. Contact the City of Tulsa Traffic Engineering Department. Request a traffic study to determine if a crosswalk is warranted.
4. Present your data and request to your City Councilor. Enlist their support in advocating for the crosswalk.
5. Follow up with the Traffic Engineering Department and your City Councilor. Be persistent and provide any additional information they request.

Now, let’s explore some accessible walking routes currently available in Tulsa. The River Parks trail system offers miles of paved paths along the Arkansas River. This is a great option for recreational walking and cycling.

The Gathering Place, Tulsa’s world-class park, also features numerous walking trails and pedestrian-friendly areas. This is a great place to enjoy a leisurely stroll and connect with nature.

The Midland Valley Trail, a rails-to-trails project, provides a scenic walking and cycling route through several Tulsa neighborhoods. This trail is a great example of how underutilized spaces can be transformed into valuable community assets.

However, even these existing routes can be improved. More shade trees, water fountains, and benches would make them even more appealing to pedestrians.

One common mistake is focusing solely on sidewalks. Walkability encompasses more than just sidewalks. It also includes safe crosswalks, pedestrian signals, traffic calming measures, and accessible public transportation.

Another pitfall is neglecting the needs of vulnerable populations. Children, seniors, and people with disabilities often face unique challenges when navigating Tulsa’s streets. Ensure that your advocacy efforts address their needs as well.

Consider the impact of street design on walkability. Wide, multi-lane roads often prioritize vehicle traffic over pedestrian safety. Advocate for narrower streets, roundabouts, and other traffic calming measures that make streets safer for pedestrians.

Think about the role of zoning in promoting walkability. Zoning regulations that separate residential, commercial, and recreational areas can discourage walking. Advocate for mixed-use zoning that allows people to live, work, and shop in the same neighborhood.

Don’t underestimate the power of social media. Use social media to raise awareness about walkability issues in Tulsa. Share photos and videos of dangerous intersections and broken sidewalks. Tag your City Councilor and other local officials in your posts.

Remember, creating a more walkable Tulsa is a long-term project. It requires sustained effort and collaboration from residents, businesses, and government officials. But with persistence and dedication, we can transform Tulsa into a city where walking is not just a necessity, but a pleasure.

Take that first step. Explore one of Tulsa’s existing walking routes. Notice what works well and what could be improved. Then, use your newfound knowledge to advocate for change in your own neighborhood. Your voice matters. Let’s make Tulsa a more walkable city, together.