A new housing development in north Tulsa opens its doors to the public

Published in House and Home on Tuesday, August 26th 2025 at 22:01 GMT by Fox 23
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North Tulsa Welcomes Its Latest Affordable‑Housing Gem: A New Development Opens to the Public

On a bright Saturday afternoon, residents of north Tulsa gathered at a newly constructed complex to celebrate the opening of a fresh wave of affordable housing for the city’s most vulnerable families. The event, which drew a crowd of local officials, community leaders, and prospective tenants, marked the culmination of a partnership between the Tulsa Housing Authority (THA), a private developer, and federal and state funding that has been on the agenda for years.

A New Development with a Purpose

The housing project, officially named “River Ridge” (official website: https://www.tulsahousingauthority.org/river-ridge), sits on a 2.5‑acre parcel at 1120 North Main Street, just a block from the Tulsa County Fairgrounds. The THA, in collaboration with the private‑sector developer Horizon Residential, has constructed 80 one‑to‑two‑bedroom units that meet the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)’s latest Affordable Housing Standards.

The project is part of the THA’s broader “Housing First” initiative, which focuses on providing stable, long‑term housing to low‑income families and individuals who have experienced homelessness or who are on the brink of losing their homes. River Ridge’s design incorporates a range of amenities that foster a sense of community while ensuring residents’ privacy and independence.

Funding and Partnerships

River Ridge was made possible by a blend of funding sources. The federal government contributed $4.5 million in HUD Community Development Block Grants, while the City of Tulsa matched that amount with $2 million in municipal bonds earmarked for affordable housing. In addition, a $1 million grant from the Oklahoma Housing Finance Agency was secured, bringing the total project budget to roughly $7.5 million.

Horizon Residential, a Tulsa‑based developer with a track record of over 30 years in building affordable housing, provided the in‑kind contribution of construction services, amounting to $2.8 million. In exchange, Horizon received a 15‑year lease for two of the larger two‑bedroom units, which will be rented to the THA as part of the community’s rental‑assistance program.

Design, Sustainability, and Amenities

River Ridge is designed with sustainability in mind. The developers incorporated a green roof that helps regulate temperature and manage stormwater runoff. Energy‑efficient appliances, low‑flow fixtures, and a solar‑powered charging station for electric vehicles underscore the project’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint.

The complex includes a community gathering space in the center of the property, complete with a small garden and seating area. Residents can enjoy a “summer BBQ” event that will be hosted by the THA twice a year. Additionally, the building’s interior features noise‑reducing insulation and sound‑proof windows to enhance tenant comfort. Two of the units are ADA‑compliant, featuring wider doorways, grab bars in bathrooms, and lowered countertops to accommodate residents with mobility challenges.

Community Impact

City officials estimate that the River Ridge development will create roughly 35 permanent jobs during construction and an additional 20 part‑time positions as the complex moves into operation (maintenance, security, property management). Local businesses, particularly those located along North Main Street, stand to benefit from increased foot traffic and a new customer base.

“River Ridge is more than just a set of houses,” said Mayor John Williams during the opening ceremony. “It’s an investment in our people, a step toward reducing the gap between the need for affordable housing and the supply that the city currently offers.” The mayor also highlighted that the complex will house at least 120 families, boosting the overall population in the area and providing a vital demographic shift that could spur further development in the neighborhood.

Voices from the Community

The event also featured a short panel discussion where tenants who have applied for housing through the THA’s waiting list shared their experiences. Sofia Martinez, a single mother of two, explained how the waiting list had been a source of uncertainty for years. “I’ve been on the list for three years. Hearing that there’s a place that will be ready soon brings me hope.” She added that the THA’s new “River Ridge” program also includes a tenant‑education component focused on financial literacy and job training.

On the other side of the room, Thomas Greene, a local pastor from the First Baptist Church of Tulsa, emphasized the importance of community support. “Housing is only one part of the equation,” he said. “We must ensure that families have access to quality schools, grocery stores, and transportation. That’s why the THA’s plan to integrate River Ridge with existing community services is so critical.”

What’s Next?

After the open‑house tour, prospective tenants will be invited to submit applications through the THA’s online portal (https://www.tulsahousingauthority.org/apply). The THA has set a priority list that includes families who have been on the waiting list for over 18 months, as well as veterans and individuals with disabilities.

Meanwhile, the THA is already planning the next phase of its housing strategy. A forthcoming project—“Maple View”—is slated for the south Tulsa corridor, with an expected completion date of 2026. The THA’s website notes that it will continue to leverage public‑private partnerships to maintain a pipeline of affordable units across the city.

Final Thoughts

River Ridge’s opening is a tangible testament to Tulsa’s commitment to addressing the long‑standing affordable‑housing crisis. With its modern, eco‑friendly design, ample amenities, and robust community‑support structure, the complex is poised to become a model for similar projects across the state. As the THA, Horizon Residential, and the City of Tulsa move forward, they exemplify how collaboration between public agencies and private entities can create lasting solutions for families in need.

For those who missed the opening or want more details about River Ridge, the Tulsa Housing Authority’s website hosts a comprehensive guide, complete with floor plans, application instructions, and FAQs (https://www.tulsahousingauthority.org/river-ridge/faq). Residents can also sign up for updates on the THA’s newsletter to stay informed about future developments and community events.

Read the Full Fox 23 Article at:
[ https://www.fox23.com/news/a-new-housing-development-in-north-tulsa-opens-its-doors-to-the-public/article_0f7dc8be-832b-4c49-b2a4-f67090f639eb.html ]

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