In Williams’ headquarters community, progress continues on America’s largest privately developed park, A Gathering Place for Tulsa. Phase one is 100 acres of interactive playgrounds, paddle boating and kayaking, zip lines, water features, sports courts, restaurants and meandering trails along the banks of the Arkansas River. The park’s focal point will be Williams Lodge, a welcome center with community rooms providing commanding views of the park and lagoons.

During a recent hardhat tour, executive director Jeff Stava provided insights and a progress report on construction. Children’s playground areas — including innovative play structures designed and built in Germany and Denmark — will be open next spring, with the remainder of the park later in the year. A Gathering Place’s phase 2, will include a new Tulsa Children’s Museum.

The road winding through the park will be called John Williams Way. The focal area within the Williams Lodge will be the Joe Williams Community Room. John and Joe, the last members of the Williams family to head the Williams Companies, were leaders in the energy industry, in conservation and in the community.

Williams has committed $16 million over 10 years toward this significant and transformational community project.