Has the city considered using the old tennis court behind the Sooner Park swimming pool as an outdoor pickle ball court? Pickle ball popularity is increasing and this old tennis court looks like it could be converted easily to accommodate two sets of games. The concrete pad is in good shape. The court has been idle, unused for some time, and even has outdoor lighting available.
Actually, that court is one of the options being considered as a possible location for pickle ball courts. City Beat readers may recall voters approved $459,000 in funding for the modification of two tennis courts at Johnstone Park (next to the Richard Kane YMCA) to allow for indoor tennis and pickleball play. However, suggestions since then to convert the old tennis court in Sooner Park to pickleball courts is currently under review by the City’s Engineering and Planning staff. To be clear, it is only one option being considered (and contains several potential barriers, including parking), and constructing the courts at the location initially planned is certainly not off the table. Stay tuned to City Beat for updates on this project.
Who does that?
Who is in charge of trimming trees that hang over the roads? I live downtown and love it because of all the mature trees, but some hang so far over the road they are damaging to taller vehicles, trailers, etc., that have to navigate the roads. And some trees hide signs and block vision down the road to see if it’s safe to cross at a stop sign. I’ve noticed this in other areas around town as well. If there are specific trees that need to be trimmed for safety,-do we call the City?
Generally speaking, it is the property owner’s responsibility to make sure tree limbs are 12 feet or greater above the road. However, City Street and/or Park department crews will respond in the event of hazardous conditions or if safety is compromised. If the tree in question is determined to be in need of correction but is not a hazard or safety issue, the matter will be referred to the City’s Code Enforcement personnel, who will work with the property owner to bring the tree into compliance.
In short, low hanging limbs/branches that are causing an unsafe situation should be reported to the Public Works Department at 918.338.4131. If the situation is not creating a hazard but needs to be addressed, contact Code Enforcement at 918.338.4230.
Also note that trees hanging over State and U.S. highways may require attention from the Oklahoma Department of Transportation, depending on the situation. City staff can make that determination and contact ODOT when applicable.