Eastern Oklahoma State College President Dr. Randy Harp (left) and Chairman of the Board of Regents Latt Jeffrey pose with members of the Latimer County Tourism Trust Authority Board after the approval of lease agreements between Eastern and the LCTTA in January.
WILBURTON, Oklahoma – Eastern Oklahoma State College has approved two long-term lease agreements with the Latimer County Tourism Trust Authority that will allow college-owned land to be used for the development of a regional recreational trail system and future visitor center, further strengthening community connections and expanding tourism opportunities across Latimer County and southeast Oklahoma.
The agreements, which were approved by the Eastern Board of Regents and by the LCTTA board, position Eastern as a key partner in a multi-phase project designed to enhance outdoor recreation, heritage tourism, and community wellness. The trail system is envisioned to ultimately connect the City of Wilburton with Robbers Cave State Park, while linking major community destinations, historic sites, and natural assets along the way.
Under the agreements, Eastern will lease designated portions of college-owned land for recreational trail easements as well as approximately nine acres for a future trailhead and visitor center. The project will be developed and maintained by the LCTTA at no cost to the college, with Eastern retaining ownership of the land and receiving recognition as a project partner.
“This partnership reflects Eastern’s commitment to working alongside our community to create opportunities that extend well beyond our campus,” said Dr. Randy Harp, president of Eastern. “By supporting this project, we are helping lay the groundwork for increased tourism, regional economic impact, and enhanced quality of life, while also providing our students and neighbors with greater access to outdoor recreation and learning opportunities.”
The proposed trailhead and visitor center, planned as the first phase of the project, will serve as a central hub for visitors and residents, providing access to trails, interpretive experiences, and connections to local history and culture. Future phases are expected to include expanded trail segments and supporting infrastructure, creating a unified system that links Wilburton, Eastern, and surrounding destinations.
Lauren Davis, president of the LCTTA, said the partnership with Eastern is foundational to the project’s success.
“Eastern’s willingness to partner and provide land for both the trail system and visitor center makes this vision possible,” Davis said. “This project is about telling the story of Latimer County, connecting people to our history and landscape, and creating a welcoming gateway that supports tourism, education, and community pride.”
In addition to recreational and tourism benefits, the trail system is expected to create opportunities for educational engagement, health and wellness activities, and safe outdoor access for students, families, and visitors. Eastern will retain design review authority to ensure the project aligns with institutional standards and long-term campus and community goals.
“Eastern has sought to develop and cultivate new and existing partnerships in recent years,” said Latt Jeffrey, Eastern Board of Regents Chairman. “There are many exciting things on the horizon that have come about from collaboration with our many community partners. The trails project and visitor center are two great examples of a vision coming together with our friends at Latimer County tourism, an idea originally brought about by our late friend Earl Shero. The trails project can be a blockbuster tourism destination while serving the local community as well. Eastern is an eager and committed partner in this effort, providing access across our ranch lands for the trail and visitor center as we look forward to many more exciting endeavors currently in the works.”
The lease agreements are contingent upon LCTTA securing grant funding for construction and development. If funding is obtained, the initial lease terms will extend for 20 years, with an option to renew, ensuring long-term public benefit and stewardship of the land.
As planning and funding efforts continue, Eastern and LCTTA will work collaboratively to advance the project and keep the community informed as additional milestones are reached.
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