Deadly Crash on L.L. Tisdale, Proposed $1.117B Tulsa Budget, Severe Weather Impacts Region

Good morning, this is Tulsa Local Pulse for Friday, May 2, 2025. Breaking news this morning as Tulsa police continue their investigation of yesterday's deadly crash on the L.L. Tisdale Expressway near Apache. A woman in her 60s lost her life in the accident that closed northbound lanes for several hours. Authorities are asking drivers to be cautious in the area as cleanup efforts may still be underway. In other police news, officers are searching for a driver who crashed into a local restaurant and damaged a nearby veterinary clinic. Details are still emerging, but anyone with information is urged to contact Tulsa Police Department. At City Hall, Mayor Monroe Nichols has proposed a $1.117 billion budget amid growing economic pressures. This marks his first budget presentation since taking office, with details expected to be discussed in upcoming city council meetings. The effects of recent severe weather continue to impact our region. Multiple communities around Tulsa are dealing with flooding, with Barnsdall facing challenges after the Waxhoma dam breach. In Okmulgee County, more than 15 roads remain closed due to high water, and Skiatook is still recovering after receiving over five inches of rain in just 24 hours. If you're heading out today, remain vigilant on roadways, especially in low-lying areas. For sports fans, the Tulsa Golden Hurricane softball team hosts Florida Atlantic tonight at 5 p.m. at the Collins Family Softball Complex. This begins their final homestand of the season, with additional games tomorrow and Sunday, when they'll celebrate Senior Day. Yesterday, Tulsa's civic and business leaders gathered for the 2025 State of Downtown event at Gradient Innovation Lab on North Cheyenne Avenue. The Downtown Tulsa Partnership presented findings from their latest annual report, discussing trends shaping our city center and highlighting developments in healthcare and education sectors. Looking ahead to next week, the City of Tulsa Board of Adjustment will continue reviewing zoning code variances and special exceptions that could impact neighborhood development. Their next meeting follows recent sessions held in April. In legislative news, Lauria and Ashley's Law has passed the Oklahoma Senate and now heads to the governor's desk for signature, representing a significant policy development for our state. The weekend forecast looks promising for outdoor activities around Tulsa, with conditions improving after our recent heavy rains. This has been Tulsa Local Pulse. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates. This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.