So far, it has received $116 million from approximately 40 individuals and corporations.

Bartlett noted that George Kaiser himself was not present at Thursday’s meeting.

“He is such a nice, good man,” the mayor said. “He never wants to be in the public eye,” but the gift speaks for itself.

Jeff Stava, project manager for A Gathering Place, also thanked the private donors who are making the park possible.

“We are very grateful to all of our donor group and their significant contributions to making A Gathering Place for Tulsa a reality for all Tulsan’s to enjoy," Stava said after Thursday's meeting. "Their contributions ensure that the park will be built to the highest standards and quality and that it will be operated and maintained in the most excellent way.”

Stava said earlier this week that the foundation has always intended to make A Gathering Place a gift to the community.

“This is the way for us to express that gift by donating it to River Parks — which is a Title 60 authority — and the beneficiaries are the city of Tulsa and Tulsa County,” Stava said.