The final scope of the project will be determined by available funding. The county has already allocated $1.25 million in Vision Tulsa funds for the work, and will look for other revenue sources if needed.

The new plaza is intended to provide a safer, more beautiful entrance to the fairgrounds and highlight the Golden Driller with new lighting and signage.

“We are thinking about an electronic kiosk or some permanent information,” Andrus said. “Because right now people show up and they say, ‘I wonder how tall it is.’ ‘I wonder how old it is.’ We’ll have all that. We’re also going to have designated areas where your best photos can be taken from.”

The county’s plan also calls for constructing three drop-off lanes in front of the River Spirit Expo to provide valet service and access for taxis, Ubers and other ground-transportation services. The lanes would be separated from the exposition center entrance by a wide walkway and protected from the elements by a metal awning.

County Commissioner and TCPFA Chairman Stan Sallee said the enhancements are long overdue.