Tim Stanley
Tulsa World Staff Writer
Making way for what officials say will be a much brighter future for the site, the demolition of a blighted north Tulsa apartment community has been completed.
Tulsa Housing Authority officials said this week that they have finished tearing down the Sunset Plaza Apartments, a 104-unit housing community adjacent to THA’s main office at 415 E. Independence St.
After THA acquired the property in August, Tulsa fire and police crews used the site for training.
Construction on a new THA property at the site is projected to begin in 2025, though exact details remain to be determined.
Crews demolish Sunset Plaza Apartments Monday in Tulsa. Construction on a new THA property at the site is projected to begin in 2025.
Ginny Hensley, THA spokeswoman, said: “We are in the very early stages of the predevelopment and design process, but we know that we’ll bring back affordable and workforce housing, hopefully adding density, as well.
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“We’re very excited about this project, particularly the incredible downtown views that this parcel of land offers.”
Previously owned by an out-of-state landlord, THA acquired the property after it was deemed a chronic public nuisance by the city of Tulsa earlier this year. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development in March removed the property’s housing assistance payment contract after the property failed multiple inspections.
HUD then approached THA and asked the agency to pursue acquisition and to provide protection vouchers for existing Sunset Plaza residents.
HUD hired a third-party contractor to oversee relocation of residents, including financial support to cover moving costs and assistance in securing a new place to live.
Crews demolish Sunset Plaza Apartments Monday, Oct. 16, 2023 in Tulsa, Ok.
“The team at HUD recognized what a blight and a danger this property has been, and when they approached us to assist we wanted to do what we can to help resolve the issue,” said Aaron Darden, THA president and CEO.
Officials said typically THA would begin demolition right away, but the Tulsa Fire Department asked about using the property for live fire training exercises for new firefighters. Tulsa Police Department officials then asked if they could use the property for training, as well.
When the scheduled trainings completed, THA moved ahead with demolition.
For more information on THA development projects, go to tulsahousing.org/development.
Crews demolish Sunset Plaza Apartments Monday, Oct. 16, 2023 in Tulsa, Ok.
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