Meshri Park at 31st and Peoria

We are finally approaching the landscaping phase of the park project at 31st and Peoria. You may have noticed the gazebo is up, and the large sycamore tree has been removed. It was a difficult decision to remove this tree, but various experts told us it would not survive the construction of the sidewalks in the park.

By removing the tree, we will be able to grade the property in such a way that fewer retaining walls will be required. The park features should include the gazebo, the memorial brick walk, a small fountain and a statue. Of course, it will also be extensively landscaped.

Development of the park has taken longer than anticipated, as we have had to solve various zoning, utility easement and cost issues. I want to remind everyone that this project has been totally funded and implemented by volunteers. To date, no public funds have been involved. It is likely that the City of Tulsa will bear some of the cost of the sidewalk, but the remaining expenses have all been donor funded.

The park will be called Dr. Indu Meshri Park, and some neighbors want to know why it is not going to be called Maple Ridge Park. Although we appreciate the contributions from Maple Ridge neighbors, we could not have completed this without the help of others. From the beginning of this project, we were clear that we would seek outside funding, if required to see this project through. The Maple Ridge Neighborhood Association voted to graciously accept the gift provided by the Meshri family. Without the generosity of the Meshri's, Walt Helmerich and the George Kaiser Family Foundation, this corner would likely still be an eyesore.

As a reminder, we have secured enough funding to build the park, but still need to raise about $30,000 to meet the George Kaiser Family Foundation Challenge Grant. We are still selling memorial bricks for $100 to help endow the park. Please consider buying some bricks or simply making a tax deductible contribution to the Tulsa Community Foundation. Please note the funds are for the Maple Ridge Endowment Fund. Please mail checks to:

Carol Lapolla, Treasurer
PO Box 52446, Utica Station
Tulsa, OK 74152

Or, you may make a donation with your credit card or PayPal account by clicking on the "Make a Donation" button. Your donation will be secure.

If you have any questions about the park, please contact a Maple Ridge Neighborhood Association Board member or Neal Sperry at 918-743-8247.