Tulsa, Oklahoma is witnessing the start of an exciting construction project on the bridge where the Center of the Universe attraction stands, also known as the Boston Avenue Bridge. Work has commenced on the south side between the Williams North Parking Garage and the Jazz Hall of Fame. This is a long process that involves repairing the bridge to host the Center of the Universe and eventually beautifying the surface level.

Preserving the Acoustic Phenomenon

The most crucial aspect throughout the entire construction process is maintaining the acoustic phenomenon that makes this spot unique. On Monday morning, a two-year long plan to refurbish and enhance one of Tulsa's most popular attractions began. The Center of the Universe has long attracted both Tulsans and tourists with the acoustic phenomenon created by the cement planters at the top of the bridge.The repairs, which have been expected for over a year, aim not only to repair the bridge but also improve the attraction for visitors. Construction manager Josh White explained that it's like a rehabilitation project to extend the life of the infrastructure. The work starts beneath the bridge, including repairs to the piers, columns, and abutments, which is expected to take roughly four months. After that, they will move north and start the next phase of repairs to the superstructures, such as removing the bollards and planters and doing some mill and overlay.When phase two begins, the center will be closed to the public. However, ensuring the sound phenomenon remains the same is one of the top priorities. White emphasized that everything not directly related to the full repair of the bridge is being worked on to sustain its life.After the construction crews complete the bridge repairs, the project will be handed over to the Downtown Tulsa Partnership (DTP). They will be responsible for refurbishing the surface level of the attraction and making it a better experience for everyone.Emily Scott, the director of planning and economic development with DTP, said they have been working on this for almost three years. They have conducted extensive community engagement and surveys. Local architects have narrated the design, and they have also engaged acoustic engineers from Austin and structural engineers. Their most important task is preserving the acoustic circle at the top of the bridge. The central concrete planters form a near-perfect circle, and that's where the acoustic or echoing effect comes from. By preserving these central concrete rings and building around them, they will be able to preserve the echoing effect.This project is part of a larger Vision Tulsa project. The construction alone will cost about $3.5 million, with a mix of public and private funding. Phase one of construction will eventually move to the north side of the bridge near 1st Street and is not expected to impact traffic or businesses on that side.