TMAPC delays decision on controversial 375-acre ‘Project Anthem’ expansion

The Tulsa Metropolitan Area Planning Commission (TMAPC) has postponed a crucial decision regarding "Project Anthem," a proposed 375-acre data center expansion in East Tulsa. The project aims to rezone land near East 11th Street and South 193rd East Avenue from its current "Neighborhood" designation, intended for future residential and small business development, to "Employment" for industrial use. The delay was requested by applicant attorney Lou Reynolds, who cited the need for more time to address concerns raised in a recent city staff report. This postponement sparked frustration among the numerous residents who had gathered at City Hall to oppose the project, with many criticizing the timing and its impact on community members taking time off work. City planners, including Principal Planner Nathan Foster, have taken the unusual step of officially recommending the denial of the application. They argue that the proposed land use change is inconsistent with the existing neighborhood designation and would hinder residential growth in the district. Public interest is notably high, with 50 out of 51 emails received by the planning office expressing opposition to the development. The TMAPC unanimously voted to reschedule the full hearing to April 1 at 1:00 p.m. at City Hall, leaving the fate of the 375-acre parcel in limbo as the conflict between industrial expansion and community development continues.