The City of Tulsa has named the SoBo District and Pearl Main Street as the newest members of its Main Street network, unlocking new resources, training, and technical assistance for the neighborhood.
The City of Tulsa announced the SoBo District and Pearl Main Street have been added to Tulsa's Main Street network.
The Oklahoma Main Street Program is a revitalization initiative that strengthens local districts and promotes long term growth by providing access to resources, training and technical assistance.
"The addition of the SoBo District and Pearl Main Street reflects the passion and commitment of the people who have invested in these neighborhoods for years," said Tulsa Mayor Monroe Nichols. "Oklahoma Main Street communities have a proven track record of strengthening local economies and creating places where small businesses and residents can thrive. We're excited to see these districts build on that momentum and continue shaping Tulsa's future."
Before the new additions, Tulsa's Main Street districts included Kendall-Whittier Main Street, Route 66 Main Street, the Historic Greenwood District and the Tulsa Global District.
District 4 Tulsa City Councilor Laura Bellis said, "I am thrilled to see the Pearl Main Street and SoBo District become part of Tulsa's Main Street communities. These two districts, which are some of Tulsa's most walkable communities given their proximity to Downtown, represent some of the very best that Tulsa has to offer—vibrant neighborhoods, locally owned businesses and engaged residents who are committed to seeing their city, and their neighbors, thrive. As these areas get new guidance and support from this program, I'm excited for the economic opportunities and resources that will come to District 4 and beyond."
According to the City of Tulsa, the city's four Main Street districts had a combined $4.5 million impact in private reinvestment and a 2,000% return on investment in 2025.
Both the SoBo District and Pearl Main Street were formed through grassroots organization efforts from their community members and local business owners.
The SoBo District features a vibrant identity and iconic local locations that include the Brut Hotel, Dreamkeepers Park, Dalesandro's, Tina's, the Royce Myers Art Gallery and more.
"We are thrilled that the SOBO Business & Property Owners Association has been chosen by the City of Tulsa as one of its two newest districts for the Main Street Program," shared SOBO District President Brian L. Freese. "We first assembled as a small group almost 11 years ago with the simple goal of improving our neighborhood, its safety, attractiveness and property values. We look forward to partnering with our city representatives to integrate safe new sidewalks, attractive sidewalk lighting, security, district signage and other amenities that highlight what we've known all along—that SOBO is a very cool, diverse, vibrant district with an interesting history, great restaurants, clubs, art galleries and more."
The Pearl District, located east of Downtown, is a walkable neighborhood known for its musical roots and vibrant arts scene. Its streets are prominently featured in FX's The Lowdown.
Matt Sanders, the Executive Director of Pearl Main Street, said, "The Pearl has always been a neighborhood built by people willing to take a chance. Every storefront represents someone who believed in this community. Becoming an Oklahoma Main Street gives us the opportunity to support those investments, bring more people to the table and help the Pearl reach its full potential."
Route 66 Main Street became the first area to join the Main Street program in 2007. Kendall Whittier Main Street was added in 2010 and both the Historic Greenwood District and the Tulsa Global District joined the program in 2020.
Source: KTUL News
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