Owasso approves plan for library with apartments built above

Owasso’s City Council votes to expand the city’s library and add dozens of apartments on top of it. Some people were worried about the mixture of people living above the library and people using the library.

Q: What has Owasso’s City Council recently approved?

A: The council voted to expand the city’s public library and build nearly 60 apartment units above it.

Q: Is this a first-of-its-kind project in Owasso?

A: Yes. According to city officials, this will be the first time a public library in Oklahoma will have people living directly above it.

Q: What will the new development include?

A: The plan will double the current library’s size, add outdoor community areas, and create around 60 apartment units.

Q: When will construction begin?

A: Demolition and construction could begin within weeks, and the city hopes to break ground before the end of the year.

Q: How do city officials view this project?

A: Mayor Alvin Fruga called the project unique and believes it will add character to downtown Owasso.

“We’re really happy. It’s unique, it’s different, and I think it will add to the uniqueness of our downtown area,” said Fruga.

Q: Are there any concerns from residents?

A: Some residents have raised concerns about privacy, noise, and the idea of a public space—like a library—being located just below private residences.

Q: Have similar living arrangements worked in downtown Owasso?

A: Yes. Gayla Turpen, who owns a local business with apartments above it, said she hasn’t had any issues.

“You’ll hear kids sometimes play or drop something, but with the type of business we have, that’s not a problem,” said Turpen.

Q: What is the biggest concern from residents?

A: Parking. Turpen noted that her only concern is about the current availability of parking downtown.

Q: Will the city address parking?

A: Yes. The plan includes 119 new parking spaces to accommodate library visitors and apartment residents.

“We’re confident that there’ll be plenty of parking for this development,” the mayor said.

Q: What happens to the current library during construction?

A: The existing library will shut down later this summer. A temporary library location will open at the 5th Avenue Business Park until the new building is completed.

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