From the lakefront to city intersections, Henryetta’s public works crews have been hard at work making visible and meaningful improvements aimed at enhancing safety and accessibility for residents and visitors alike.

On March 31, crews focused efforts around the volleyball court and beach area, completing critical dirt work to better manage watershed runoff and help retain sand. This work ensures that heavy rains won’t wash out the court and nearby walking areas, making the space safer and more enjoyable for recreational use.

Additional dirt was moved around the new concrete pad near the beach, creating a smoother, more gradual slope down to the water. This will soon be followed by more sand to tie the beach area into the recently installed riprap bank, further stabilizing the shoreline and improving both appearance and function. Once a new kayak kiosk arrives, a sidewalk approach will be poured to connect the pad and beach, allowing for easier and safer access for water enthusiasts.

A few days earlier, on March 26, public works completed another critical infrastructure repair – this one below the streets. At the intersection of 12th and Main, crews replaced a collapsed 18-inch clay tile storm drain pipe with nine feet of new 18inch plastic HP pipe. The new pipe was fully encapsulated in concrete to prevent future shifting and protect the integrity of the stormwater system, which includes an 80+ year old 60-inch stacked clay tile mainline.

In addition, improvements were made at 12th and Broadway, where crews restored the approach to a catch basin. A new curb will be added in the near future, followed by an asphalt overlay across the width of the roadway.

These projects reflect the city’s continued investment in both public safety and recreational development, thanks to the careful planning and hard work of Henryetta’s public works department.

Community members are encouraged to recognize and thank the city leaders, planners and work crews responsible for these improvements. Their dedication and expertise are helping make Henryetta a safer, more accessible place for all.