Broken Arrow, Oklahoma Shoots For Tulsa-Free Identity
by Blanche Evans
Once considered a suburb of Tulsa, Oklahoma, Broken Arrow has come into its own with thriving schools, low crime, quality developments and other attractions, say local Realtors. "Broken Arrow is a suburb southeast of Tulsa," says Realtor Curtis Kretchmar. "It is easily accessible from the Tulsa International Airport or from major highways coming in all directions. It was transportation, in fact, which ignited the amazing growth of Broken Arrow beginning in the mid 1960's. The opening of the Broken Arrow Expressway made the trip from Tulsa to Broken Arrow much easier. Other major additions to the highway system affecting Broken Arrow have been the opening of highway 169, running north and south out of Kansas and the extension of the Creek Turnpike and south loop." Kretchmar adds, "Broken Arrow is noted for low crime, good schools, quality development, and excellent transportation access to surrounding areas. These factors are primarily fueling the growth of the community. Growing nearly 35 percent since 1990, Broken Arrow continues to be one of the fastest growing communities in Oklahoma of those with more than 50,000 persons. Between 1990 and 2000, the city of Broken Arrow added nearly 17,000 residents, growing from 58,043 to 2000 population of 74,859 as reported by the U.S. Census. In 1980, Broken Arrow was the 28th largest city in Oklahoma, in 1990 the 9th, and today the city ranks 5th. The estimated population is 81,900." " Once thought of as a merging subdivision of Tulsa, Broken Arrow now claims its own identity as one of the fastest growing cities in the country," says Realtor Richard Kerlin. "Broken Arrow is a very livable city with a favorable cost-of-living ratio, and has easy access to Tulsa and all of its community offerings. "Historically-low interest rates continue to bring many buyers to the market," says Kerlin, "tempering some of the pressures of the increased inventory. Indications show a trend toward a stronger buyer's market. As with any market, homes that are priced competitively, and move-in condition, have a marked advantage over its competition." "Broken Arrow has the best of both worlds with a small town atmosphere and all the big city amenities," says Realtor Margaret Bannochie. "Broken Arrow also boasts a proven track record of public safety and some of the finest schools in the state. Broken Arrow residents also enjoy numerous parks and recreational facilities. Area shopping centers allow residents to find what they need without fighting big-city traffic. Broken Arrow is also home to the branch campus of Northeastern State University." |
