By John Dobberstein, Editor
The city is expected to discuss a proposed plan Tuesday for redevelopment of the former grain silo property in the Rose District with an eye on keeping it a focal point for the public.
The city purchased the former Farmers Co-Op silo — which stands 158 feet tall — last year from Hansen Mueller, which granted the property to the city after another entity with an identical bid of $250,000 edged the city out on the clock.
Grain silos have been the subject of redevelopment efforts throughout the U.S., becoming mixed-use developments, museums, recreational facilities or other projects.
The city’s preliminary proposed vision is making the silo and its surrounding property an extension of the Rose District plaza and farmers market, which has grown substantially in recent years. Many special events take place in the plaza every year in addition to the farmers market each week.
With the silo already in hand, the city is in negotiations with the Burlington Northern Sante Fe Railroad to purchase additional land around the silo that if developed would allow for additional vendors to the market.
Permanent structures could be added to support city events including a stage, additional public restrooms, and upgrading the grain silo with theatrical lighting.
A permanent barrier would be built along the railroad tracks for enhanced safety, and a viewing plaza, stage, “family zone” and food-truck area is envisioned, along with an expansion for The Museum Broken Arrow being discussed.
Tax records show Hansen-Mueller purchased the grain elevator from Farmers Cooperative in 2005 for $235,000. The fair market value of the property last year was $21,800 according to the Tulsa County Assessor, and Hansen-Muller was paying about $300 in taxes annually on the property.
The special meeting is slated for Tuesday at 5 p.m. at City Hall, 220 N. 1st St. The City Council is expected to discuss some additional downtown infrastructure projects at the meeting as well.
Robert Goranson says
This would be great for Broken Arrow. That area is a focal point for downtown and the numerous events and activities that take place. The downtown area is always changing and the City properties should be allowed to add and/or update also.