Broken Arrow officials have identified the initial projects to be financed by the $415 million General Obligation (GO) bond that voters approved earlier this year, according to the Broken Arrow Sentinel. The early‑stage work, slated to begin in fiscal year 2027, focuses on essential infrastructure such as stormwater management, road widening and community‑center renovations, aiming to improve daily life for residents while supporting the city’s continued growth.
Assistant City Manager Kenneth Schwab explained that the city’s net assessed valuation has risen from $750 million in 2015 to $1.3 billion in 2024, driven by new residential and commercial development. This increase provides additional property‑tax revenue, which, combined with the bond proceeds, will fund the projects without raising the mill levy beyond current levels. Schwab noted Oklahoma is the only state that does not allow sales taxes for capital improvements, making the bond the primary financing tool.
Projected bond revenue shows $16.7 million available for FY 2027, with annual availability ranging from $20 million to $28 million through 2033, climbing to $32.5 million in 2034 and $48 million by 2039 as earlier debt retires. “This year is the only year we can talk about with any real factual matters,” said Charlie Bright, the city’s Director of Engineering and Construction. Bright added that priorities were set based on input from the governing body, the public and city leadership.
The first $2 million bond sale, scheduled for December under the 2026 election, attracted four bids; Robert W. Baird secured the contract with a 4.2155% rate. Funds from this sale will support a $1.1 million stormwater project and $844,000 in drainage improvements. The $16.7 million slated for 2027 includes construction of South Main Street upgrades, the 91st Street and 1st Place intersection, and a renovation of the Central Park Community Center along with a regional detention pond for the North Elm Economic Development Area.
Looking ahead, the city plans design work in 2028 for Omaha Street widening, new pickleball and volleyball courts at Nienhuis Park, and a senior‑center addition, while 2029 could see construction on Tucson Street from Olive to Aspen. By 2031, major projects may include the Houston Street and Evans Road intersection, a new South Broken Arrow Library and the Veterans Center Expansion. Residents can expect ongoing updates as the bond program progresses, with the next major bond‑sale bid and project‑design phases slated for late 2024.
Sources: basentinel.com
