Vote for Broken Arrow in ‘Best in the World 2026’ Contest
Broken Arrow residents have another opportunity to show their community pride by voting for local businesses, parks, and public safety agencies in the Tulsa World’s Best in the World 2026 contest.
Voting is officially underway and continues through August 2, giving residents several weeks to support the people and places that make Broken Arrow one of Oklahoma’s fastest-growing and most celebrated communities. Winners will be recognized during a special awards event on September 17 and featured in the Tulsa World on September 20.
Broken Arrow Has Several Outstanding Nominees
This year’s contest features numerous Broken Arrow nominees across several categories, highlighting the city’s outstanding parks, public safety departments, businesses, nonprofits and community organizations.
Among the city-sponsored nominees are:
- Elam Park — Best Park
- Broken Arrow Fire Department — Best Fire Department
- Broken Arrow Police Department — Best Police Department
City leaders are encouraging residents to help these local organizations earn top honors by casting their votes before the August deadline. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
Why Elam Park Is Turning Heads
Although Elam Park officially opened just two years ago, it has quickly become one of Broken Arrow’s premier family destinations.
Phase One of the 53-acre park opened in late 2024 and includes approximately 9.5 acres of developed space featuring:
- An inclusive playground designed for children of all abilities
- Walking trails
- Open green spaces
- Modern recreational amenities
- Family gathering areas
The park was funded through the city’s 2018 General Obligation Bond program. Earlier this year, voters also approved plans for a new community center that will be constructed at Elam Park as part of the 2026 General Obligation Bond initiative, ensuring the park will continue expanding in the years ahead. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
Recognizing Broken Arrow’s First Responders
Broken Arrow’s public safety agencies have also earned nominations thanks to their commitment to protecting residents every day.
The Broken Arrow Fire Department is one of Oklahoma’s largest Advanced Life Support transport departments and holds the prestigious ISO Class 1 rating—the highest fire protection classification available.
Meanwhile, the Broken Arrow Police Department continues emphasizing proactive policing, transparency, innovation and strong community partnerships, helping maintain one of the safest communities in the Tulsa metro area.
How to Cast Your Vote
Voting in the Best in the World 2026 contest is free and does not require a Tulsa World subscription.
Residents can browse every category, search for their favorite businesses and organizations, and vote online through the official contest website.
Whether you’re supporting your favorite local restaurant, neighborhood business, park, or public service agency, every vote helps showcase what makes Broken Arrow such a special place to live, work and play.
A Chance to Celebrate the Community
Awards like Best in the World do more than recognize individual winners—they shine a spotlight on the entire community. They help introduce visitors to local attractions, encourage support for hometown businesses, and recognize the employees, volunteers and first responders who help make Broken Arrow thrive.
With voting open now through August 2, city officials hope residents will take a few minutes to support their hometown favorites and help Broken Arrow once again earn statewide recognition.
