Tulsa, September 21, 2025
News Summary
Tulsa has started construction on the Caja de Agua fountain, a cultural gift from San Luis Potosí, Mexico. The project aims to enhance community ties and art, featuring native plants and bilingual signage. The fountain, slated for completion by October 2025, will offer free access for one week annually, fostering community engagement. The initiative strengthens connections between Tulsa and its Sister City, while environmental concerns are being addressed in the region regarding contamination in the Arkansas River.
Tulsa has officially begun construction on the Caja de Agua fountain, a significant cultural gift from San Luis Potosí, Mexico. The groundbreaking ceremony took place on a Friday afternoon at the Tulsa Botanic Garden, bringing excitement to community members and leaders alike.
The CEO of Tulsa Botanic Garden expressed enthusiasm about the project, noting its potential to strengthen community ties and enhance the local art scene. The Caja de Agua is a replica of a historic fountain that has stood in San Luis Potosí for nearly 200 years, originally completed in 1827.
The planned features of the fountain area will include modern lighting, water installations, and a design that allows the fountain to be winterized. Native plants from San Luis Potosí will be used to decorate the surroundings, establishing a natural link between the two locations. Additionally, benches and bilingual signage in both English and Spanish will create an inviting space for visitors.
To encourage community engagement, the Tulsa Botanic Gardens has announced plans to offer free admission for one week each year, allowing residents to enjoy the Caja de Agua experience without any cost. Completion of the fountain is expected by October 2025, marking a new chapter in cultural exchange between Tulsa and San Luis Potosí.
This initiative is meaningful as it strengthens the bonds established in 1980 when San Luis Potosí became Tulsa’s first Sister City. Such cultural ties not only promote friendship and collaboration but also highlight the importance of community building through public art.
In a related note, environmental issues have drawn attention in west Tulsa. The HF Sinclair Refinery has raised concerns among residents regarding reports of contamination in the Arkansas River, including oil sheens and discolored water. The Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality has confirmed the historical presence of contamination beneath the refinery site, covering a significant area.
Local residents have expressed worries about chemical odors and ongoing contamination, particularly following rain events. In response, HF Sinclair has stated that their cleanup plans are currently under review. The orange discoloration of the river water, which initially raised concerns of an active spill, has been attributed to natural iron oxidation.
The DEQ has encouraged community involvement and has acknowledged the demand for public meetings to discuss ongoing cleanup efforts, emphasizing that communication will remain a priority as the situation unfolds.
Key Features of the Caja de Agua Fountain
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Tulsa Botanic Garden |
| Historical Significance | Replica of a fountain built in 1827 in San Luis Potosí |
| Surrounding Plants | Native plants from San Luis Potosí |
| Bilingual Signage | Signage in English and Spanish |
| Free Admission | One week of free entry annually to experience the fountain |
| Completion Date | Expected by October 2025 |
FAQ
What is the Caja de Agua fountain?
The Caja de Agua is a fountain being constructed at the Tulsa Botanic Garden as a gift from San Luis Potosí, Mexico. It is a replica of a historic structure with over 200 years of history.
When will the construction of the fountain be completed?
Construction is expected to be completed by October 2025.
What features will be included in the fountain’s design?
The design will feature lighting, water elements, native plants from San Luis Potosí, benches, and bilingual signage in English and Spanish.
Will there be any community engagement activities?
Yes, the Tulsa Botanic Gardens plans to offer free admission for one week each year to encourage community members to enjoy the Caja de Agua fountain.
What environmental concerns are currently being addressed in Tulsa?
There are concerns regarding contamination linked to the HF Sinclair Refinery, particularly in relation to oil sheens and discoloration of the Arkansas River, with the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality involved in oversight and public communication.
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Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Fox23: Construction begins on Caja de Agua fountain gifted by Tulsa’s Mexican sister city
- Wikipedia: Tulsa
- Fox23: HF Sinclair responds to concerns over oil sheens on Arkansas River
- Google Search: Environmental impact of oil refineries
- Fox23: Tulsa Tech students undertake annual stair climb honoring fallen first responders from 9/11
- Google Scholar: Memorials for first responders
- KTUL: Mexican sister city gifts iconic Caja de Agua fountain replica to Tulsa Botanic Garden
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Tulsa Race Massacre
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