What was once an overlooked alley tucked behind downtown storefronts is now one of Okmulgee’s most welcoming shared spaces. The transformation of Wall Street Alley did not happen because of one idea or one person – it happened because a community answered the call, quietly and collectively.
According to Johnna Yoder, the project began with a vision to reclaim an underused space while honoring its history and creating something functional for everyday community life.
“I’m really excited about this project,” Yoder said during final preparations. “We received a $15,000 grant from AARP, but that amount doesn’t go very far for a space this size. What made the difference was how the community stepped in.” — The AARP Grant: A Catalyst, Not the Whole Story The AARP grant provided the foun- dation that allowed the Wall Street Alley project to move forward. The funding came with basic requirements focused on accessibility, safety, and community use – goals that aligned naturally with Main Street’s vision.
“They had some basic requirements they wanted us to meet,” Yoder explained, “but they were very open in allowing us to get it done in a way that worked for our community and then report back on how it was going.”
The grant helped cover essential infrastructure and equipment, including accessible design elements and mobile carts that allowed nearby businesses to adjust operations while keeping the space clean and functional. Beyond that, the project relied heavily on donated labor, materials and local problem- solving. “AARP really took a chance on a small community like ours,” Yoder said. “They’ve been supportive throughout the process.”
— Built by the Community, Piece by Piece
Nearly every visible element of Wall Street Alley reflects local contribution. Recycled propane tanks were transformed into functional barriers by a local fabrication shop. Cement was donated. Equipment time was volunteered. String lights were installed with donated lift services. Nearby building owners allowed electrical access and absorbed long-term costs.
“It’s been a lot of community donations,” Yoder said. “Nobody asked for recognition. Nobody bragged about their involvement or counted their hours. They’ve just been down here every day, all weekend, working sunup to sundown and getting it done.”
Safety and accessibility were key considerations throughout the project. Traffic barriers were designed to be easily moved by emergency services, safety gates were installed to protect residents living along the alley, and the space was built to be wheelchair accessible.
“You can pull your wheelchair right up and reach everything,” Yoder said. “That matters.”
Plans are already in place to partner with local gardening groups and the community garden in the spring, potentially introducing raised planters that could supply fresh herbs and produce to nearby restaurants.
— Reclaiming a Name with History During a later revitalization gathering, John Neal shared the historical roots of Wall Street Alley – history that many residents may not realize runs more than a century deep.
“The earliest record I could find was 1920 in a phone book directory,” Neal said. “The backside of the M&D building was built in 1916, so Wall Street might have existed before 1920. What I was told is that businessmen would gather here after hours and make deals – that’s how Wall Street got its name.”
Over time, the alley faded from use. The current project, Neal said, is about restoring function and connection allowing businesses to eventually reopen back entrances and reestablish the alley as an extension of downtown life.
— Visionaries, Planners – And the Doer Neal described the project as one that required balance.
“In every project, there are three types of people,” he said. “There’s a visionary, planners, and doers. Without the doer, this project definitely would not have gotten done on time – or on budget.”
That reflection led into a moment few expected.
During a private, unannounced presentation, the Main Street team surprised Jill Rhodes with the G.O.A.T. Award, honoring her as the person who carried the project through its most demanding phases.
She was not expecting it. — Gratitude Without the Spotlight Yoder had been looking for a way to express her gratitude for Rhodes’ tireless work – work that included purchasing supplies, coordinating logistics, painting, managing receipts, returning repeatedly to stores for needed materials, and keeping the project moving without seeking recognition.
“She just jumped in and took charge,” Yoder said. “She buys the supplies, brings them down, sprays it herself, drops off the receipts, then goes back for the next piece they need.”
The G.O.A.T. Award presentation was intentionally kept quiet. It was not a public ceremony or a promotional moment. It was simply a sincere acknowledgment of unseen labor – one servant recognizing another.
— A Space Still Becoming
Wall Street Alley officially opened earlier this month and is already being used for community gatherings, seasonal events, and everyday downtown activity. But Yoder emphasized that the project is not finished – it is evolving.
Volunteer opportunities remain available, and long-term plans include expanded use by nearby businesses, seasonal plantings and continued partnerships.
“This is what happens when people come together,” Yoder said. “They did it quickly, humbly and with heart.”
Once known for backroom deals, Wall Street Alley now tells a different story – one of restored purpose, shared work, and a quiet moment of gratitude that mattered just as much as the transformation itself.
DAWN CARTER | REPORTER
