Faith Harl

Faith Harl

The Arrival of Tulsa Premium Outlets

Jenks, one of Oklahoma’s rapidly growing suburbs, has recently made headlines with the much-anticipated opening of Tulsa Premium Outlets. This vibrant new shopping destination is set to elevate the quality of life for residents while positioning Jenks as a notable recreational hotspot.

                         A Landmark Development

Tulsa Premium Outlets, affectionately known as the Simon Outlet Mall, opened its doors in August after a decade of development. With an investment of around $100 million, this open-air shopping haven features over 80 premium brands, enticing shoppers with discounts of up to 65%. It’s a boon for locals and visitors alike, providing a refreshing alternative to traditional retail experiences.

City Manager Christopher Shrout highlights the significance of the mall: “The Simon Outlet Mall will provide much-needed shopping to our residents. Many live here but work in Tulsa due to a lack of nearby amenities for entertainment and shopping.” Its strategic location near U.S. 75 and the Creek Turnpike makes it easily accessible for those traveling from Arkansas, southern Missouri, and Kansas.

                             A Decade in the Making

Though it may feel like the outlet sprang up overnight, the groundwork for this project was laid back in 2015 when Simon Property Group first announced its plans. Originally slated to open in 2017, the project faced various challenges, including construction delays due to supply chain issues. After breaking ground in 2020, it finally resumed in 2023, marking a significant milestone for the community.

                     A Positive Community Impact

Unlike other proposed outlet malls in the Tulsa area, which faltered, the Jenks project has garnered enthusiastic support from local business owners and officials. The city estimates the mall will attract around 7 million visitors each year and create over 800 jobs, generating an economic impact in the hundreds of millions of dollars. “This will not only boost sales at the mall but also benefit nearby restaurants and shops,” Shrout adds.

To facilitate this growth, Jenks revamped its tax increment financing districts, channeling funds not just to the mall but also to other developments, including enhancements near the Oklahoma Aquarium and Jenks Riverwalk.

                    A Premium Shopping Experience

Tulsa Premium Outlets offers a rich variety of brands, featuring retailers like Tory Burch, Vineyard Vines, and Polo Ralph Lauren. The 340,000-square-foot center is designed with an open-air concept, complete with a two-acre children’s park, a restaurant, and a stunning decorative fountain. Over 1,000 construction workers helped bring this vision to life, marking a significant achievement for the community.

Simon Property Group, which operates over 250 retail properties, has been a committed partner in this venture, as Shrout notes: “We’ve enjoyed a strong collaboration with Simon.”

                           Infrastructure for Growth

With an influx of visitors expected, Jenks has been proactive in expanding its infrastructure to manage increased traffic and enhance pedestrian experiences. A one-way traffic circle directs visitors seamlessly to the mall, accompanied by 2,000 public parking spaces. Main Street has been widened from two to four lanes, facilitating smoother access from Highway 75 to Elm. Additionally, new walking and biking trails connect residents to the shopping center, with plans to further widen Elm Street.

                 More Developments on the Horizon

Tulsa Premium Outlets is just the beginning of a transformative journey for Jenks. The city is revitalizing Main Street, focusing on attracting new businesses while preserving its small-town charm. Upcoming projects include a new restaurant from the McNellie’s Group—City Hall Steak & Cocktail—and a full-service hospital by Ascension St. John.

The area around the Oklahoma Aquarium is also buzzing with potential, including the 1940s-inspired Camp Pickle restaurant and a multi-story family entertainment venue called High 5, set to enhance Jenks’ appeal.

                            A Bright Future Ahead

As Jenks continues to evolve, the arrival of Tulsa Premium Outlets signals a promising future. “We anticipate even more visitors coming to the mall, the aquarium, and all the other attractions Jenks has to offer,” says Shrout. With so much underway, the city is poised for remarkable growth, blending modern conveniences with its enduring charm.

Tags: Oklahoma’s fastest-growing suburb, Jenks welcomed Tulsa Premium Outlets, Oklahoma growth

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