For Immediate Release: August 13th, 2025

For More Information Contact: 405-713-1501

Oklahoma County, OK- In a pivotal step towards enhancing community safety and connectivity, Commissioner Jason Lowe recently hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new sidewalks in the City of Spencer that his road crew completed. This project was made possible through a $313,311 Rural Economic Action Plan (REAP) grant from ACOG (Association of Central Oklahoma Governments), which Commissioner Lowe proudly used to complete the City of Spencer Sidewalk Project, which connects Star Spencer High School and Spencer’s City Hall. 

The City of Spencer, historically lacking in pedestrian infrastructure, has an urgent need for such developments. Community sidewalks increase ADA accessibility, decrease risks of accidents, promote community health by encouraging walking and cycling, and also raises social interactions, which Commissioner Jason Lowe and Mayor Charmin Williams believe the sidewalk will help.

Commissioner Lowe expressed that this project further showcases his commitment to addressing rural infrastructure issues in Oklahoma County, stating, “I have learned about the challenges our municipalities and towns with lower populations face due to inadequate funding to complete infrastructure updates such as pedestrian pathways long ago, and I am proud to not only bring this issue to light but also to act in aiding the problem. Lowe continues, “I am pleased to have chosen the City of Spencer, who is usually overlooked for such projects. The new projects will help to ensure that our sidewalks meet the needs of all residents and contribute to a safer environment for everyone.”

Spencer Mayor Charmin Williams added, “This project represents a turning point for our community. I am thankful for Commissioner Lowe’s dedication and leadership in addressing these vital infrastructure needs. Enhancing our walkability not only prioritizes the safety of our students but also fosters a stronger, more inclusive community for all of Spencer’s residents.”

The ribbon-cutting took place on Saturday, August 9th, at 10:00 am in front of Star Spencer High School.

The Rural Economic Action Plan (REAP) is essential to providing Oklahoma communities with populations under 7,000, with the opportunity to improve their infrastructure and quality of life. REAP grants may include improvements in rural water quality, rural solid waste disposal or treatment, rural sanitary sewer construction or upgrades, provision of rural health care services (including emergency medical care), telecommunications improvements, projects that increase employment levels, and municipal energy distribution system improvements.

-30-