Governor Stitt announces completion of Operation SAFE in Tulsa

Today, Governor Stitt announced the Oklahoma Highway Patrol (OHP) has completed its work in Tulsa under Operation SAFE, the state’s initiative to restore safety and cleanliness by removing homeless encampments, trash, and debris from state-owned property.

“OHP completed its work in Tulsa under Operation SAFE. They completed this work with the most courtesy and professionalism,” said Governor Stitt. “In 14 days, OHP cleared 64 sites and disposed of 1.97 million pounds of debris. Now, it is up to Mayor Nichols and Tulsa officials to ensure state and local laws are enforced and camps are not reestablished. OHP will continue to monitor state property and will return to enforce state law if necessary.”

In Tulsa, 1,976,705 pounds (988.35 tons) of debris was removed from state-owned property in just 14 days.

OHP and ODOT are continuing to coordinate with local agencies to provide safe housing and treatment options for individuals at these encampments. Those who refuse assistance and continue breaking the law may face prosecution.

Governor Stitt emphasized that while the state took action on state-owned land, long-term safety and maintenance on city property remains the responsibility of city leadership.